Sponging Techniques
Sponging is easy to master. Using a natural sea sponge and McCloskey Special Effects Glazes, experiment on a practice board with two techniques. For sponging, dip the sea sponge in the glaze and dab onto a dry Base Coat. For subtractive sponging , use the sponge to take off wit glaze from a painted surface.

Step One:
Before starting this technique, mask woodwork, floors, ceiling and corners. Applying McCloskey Special Effects Base Coat is as simple as applying any latex wall paint. Follow label directions to ensure the best results. Begin by cutting in corners and edges with a high quality nylon-bristle brush. Paint large areas with a high quality short-nap roller cover. Finish each area by rolling full length from ceiling to floor to eliminate lap marks. Allow to dry for a minimum of 4 hours, or overnight.

Step Two:
Rinse new sea sponges in water to remove any dirt or grit. Dip the damp sponge into the glaze, and blot excess.

Step Three: Take the properly loaded sponge and dab the wall with a light, pouncing motion. Rotate the sponge often to create a random pattern. Reload sponge when color begins to diminish.

Professional Tip:
When you reach a corner or tight space, switch to a smaller sea sponge.

Colors used on this page:
Ricciardi Brothers has developed this web site with Benjamin Moore Colors.  Look below for color names and/or numbers.
note
: colors may vary in appearance from computer to computer.  Read more about our color statement here.
     
Summer Basket Green Santa Fe Tan