How to Paint With Sea Sponges

by Anne Rose

Overview

Sea sponge painting is one of the easiest and most popular techniques in faux finishing, or the art of adding texture and color to walls or furniture. Sea sponges are purchased at art supply or home improvement stores and range from very fine to rough in texture. Each sea sponge is unique, lending a unique pattern to a project. Sea sponge paint is usually applied over a base coat, in a complementary color. Faux glaze mixed with the paint creates a consistency that is easy to work with and adds transparency; an overcoat of faux glaze creates a professional finish.

Step 1

Paint the wall or furniture a base coat. Disregard minor irregularities in the surface, because sponge painting disguises many flaws. Any paint can be used, depending upon the surface; latex paints are easy to clean up.
Step 2

Select the second paint color. A very subtle effect can be achieved by using the same color a few shades darker or lighter. A more intriguing look is created with a contrasting color. Mix the paint three parts paint to one part faux glaze. Test on a sample board and adjust the formula.
Step 3

Wearing gloves, dampen the sea sponge. Dip it into the paint.
Step 4

Blot the sea sponge on the surface. Press lightly so that the texture of the sponge transfers to the wall or other surface. Too much paint on the sponge and heavy pressure will yield a messy, unattractive finish. Continue in a random pattern, covering the area lightly.
Step 5

Let dry and repeat. Two or three light layers of sea sponge paint is more attractive than one heavy layer. It is always easier to add paint than to remove it.

1
Natural sea sponge Paint Faux glaze Stir stick Gloves
Natural sea sponge
Paint
Faux glaze
Stir stick
Gloves
Cut a very small piece of sea sponge to reach into corners. A dry sea sponge can be used to remove paint from a surface, or rolled over a painted wall for an interesting effect without adding another color.
Cut a very small piece of sea sponge to reach into corners. A dry sea sponge can be used to remove paint from a surface, or rolled over a painted wall for an interesting effect without adding another color.