Sponge painting simulates different textures and creates dimensions on the wall. Although this is a relatively simple technique, it takes learning, practice and refining your application method before attempting to try the technique on a wall. The colours you choose, the way you apply the paint and the way the colours are layered will all affect the overall effect. Collect a few practice panels and use manufacturer's sample size paints. If you can't find the colour you want in the sample sizes available in shops, you can mix and match paint colours online and have paint samples mailed to you.
Choosing two or three colours that suit the sponge is only part of the equation. If these colours do not complement the room, then all your efforts are in vain. Colours can interact when placed side by side or one in front of the other. The lighting in the room is another factor. This is why it is important to practise on a swatch board. Once you have got the hang of it, you can use the swatches to check the colours in different light, at different times of the day, in different areas of the room and next to the trim, panelling, flooring and furniture. Even if you are on the right track with the basic colours, you may need to adjust the intensity or hue, usually by adjusting the glaze colour.
Children Painting Brush
Two types of colour schemes apply to sponge painting: monochrome schemes and similar schemes. Monochrome consists of the same shade or different shades of colour. When choosing a glaze colour, select at least three shades that are lighter or darker than the base colour. Similar colours are next to each other on the colour wheel and are combined together in the colour scheme, for example warm and cool colours. You can also use a mixture of single colours and similar colours. Closely related colours provide the subtle textures and dimensions that sponge painting is known for. Depending on the colour and technique used, the mottled or marbled effect often mimics the look of aged plaster, parchment, granite or marbled stone.
DIY Painting Brush
When choosing a colour palette for any of the schemes, it is also important to bear in mind the atmosphere of the room. To create a relaxed atmosphere in a bedroom or bathroom, roll on a light blue base. Once the base colour has dried completely, dip a sponge into a dark blue, at least three shades away from the base blue. Mix this colour with a varnishing medium that thins the paint to make the colour more translucent and allow the base colour to shine through. You can stop there or add a third or even darker shade of blue, or change it slightly by adding some light green or purple. You can also start with a light green or mauve base and then layer darker shades of these colours over the base, mixing a third turquoise or blue-green with the green base and adding a little midnight blue over the mauve base.
DIY Art Sponge Roller Brush
Create vibrant walls in living rooms, kitchens and dining rooms with warm colours using the sponge technique. Active rooms in the home are perfect for higher-energy colours. For a golden accent wall behind a brown or burgundy sofa, start with a pale creamy yellow base and then accent with three to four shades of deep yellow. Use a hint of burnt brown to add depth. For the dining room, apply a dark burgundy or burgundy glaze over a light rose or blush pink base. A bright pumpkin orange paint under a rustic brown glaze creates a warm Mediterranean feel to the room.
Neutrals work well when trying to achieve the old world look of old plaster or parchment. Start with light beige, cream or sandy undertones, then use medium to dark browns and golds as accents. Depending on technique and tone, monochrome shades of white and grey can create a smooth marble texture or a rougher granite texture. Mix in a layer of brown to warm things up a little. When redecorating in the future, sponge with neutral tones to provide greater flexibility for furniture and accessories.
