Sponge Painting Tips for the Trendy, Thrifty Painter

Do you want your guests to be wowed the next time they walk into your home? If you're someone who is always on top of the latest trends, then you want your guests to see that reflected in your walls. Does this mean to cover your walls with mirrors? No! But what it does mean is that you need to decorate your home with the latest style. A perfect way to do this is by choosing a new, fun type of painting technique. Sponge painting is something that is both simple and inexpensive. While easy, sponge painting tips can make the process even simpler.

Sponge Painting Tips: Color

According to Renters Decorating Digest, "sponge painting is perhaps the easiest faux technique to master." But while the technique may be easier, the color scheme isn't always as simple. Renters Decorating Digest recommends sponging one color over another for a "subtle" look, although some people sponge over white. Sponging over white, however, often results in a bold, colorful look. This can be appropriate for a children's room, but is often too intense for other areas of the home. Choosing two colors that compliment each other for sponge painting, however, is difficult. Marion Boddy-Evans, an About.com guide, implies that painters should have a basic understanding of color theory. For instance, a primary color's complimentary color is the result of mixing the remaining primary colors. A color wheel or color triangle can help painters who don't want a degree in art to choose an excellent color scheme.

Sponge Painting Tips: Technique

Once you have the color down, it's time to get to the sponging technique. This may be easy, but first you have to start out with a good sponge. Renters Decorating Digest recommends any kind of kitchen sponge. However, it's important that the sponge is cut to expose an irregular surface. In addition, paint must be nearly dry before the actual sponging occurs; otherwise running might be a more accurate term. Finally, you'll want to make sure to practice a varied, natural sponging pattern, according to Renters Decorating Digest.

With an old kitchen sponge and a few buckets of paint, sponge painting is easy, fun, and affordable. By studying these sponge painting tips, you should be ready to go out and sponge paint now! But practicing on another surface before you get to your wall is advisable!