What is Sponging?
One of the quicker techniques, one or more mixtures of glazed color is applied with a slightly dampened sea sponge over a solid paint color base. Using natural sea sponges, we create subtle or dramatic results depending on the colors we choose, the spaces between the sponge marks, the size of the sponge, and how we may mute or blend the colors. Along with sponging, a softening effect can be added by patting the glaze colors with a soft dry rag, or lightly rolling over the sponged marks with a new dry roller. In general, two or more sponged colors give a more pleasing effect than one. Sponging with only one color can look rather “spotty” unless the sponge shade is very closely related to the base coat shade. Colors, such as apricot over a warm yellow or a warm taupe over a creamy base, that are tonally similar to the background, rather than contrasting, will produce the best results. Sponging layer upon layer produces a cloudy effect.
