How to Sponge Paint for Wall Texture

1. Materials needed: two or more colors of interior wall paint, painter's tape, disposable gloves, natural sea sponges, strip of cardboard 2"-4" wide and paper plates or towels for blotting excess paint from sponges prior to painting.

2. Latex paints are ideal for this technique because they dry quickly and you won't have to wait to apply the next layer of paint.

3. Make sure the wall is smooth and clean.

4. Use painter's tape to protect woodwork on doorframes and baseboards.

5. Use one color of paint to apply a base coat to the wall.

6. Dampen the sponges in water and wring them out as dry as possible.

7. Put on your disposable gloves prior to sponging.

8. Dip one sponge in the base color. Dab the sponge onto a paper plate or paper towels until most of the paint has been removed.

9. Gently press the sponge against the wall and lift away. Continue sponging in a random pattern.

10. When the sponge is completely dry, dip it into the paint and begin the process again.

11. To sponge on additional colors, use a clean sponge and start with the darkest colors before adding lighter colors.

12. Add as many layers of sponged paint, as you want until you achieve the desired effect.

Tips:

· Use natural sponges with medium to heavy textures -- a different sponge for each color you use. Synthetic sponges can be used but natural sea sponges will create a more interesting pattern.

· Use the strip of cardboard to protect bordering surfaces when sponging close to ceilings or corners.

· Step back from the wall every now and then and take a look at the effect you're creating. It will help you decide where to add more paint and color.