How to Sponge Paint Your Dining Room

The first step in sponge painting is selecting your paint colors. Although most people typically use two colors, you can always apply more if it suits your tastes. For a more subtle texture, choose paint colors that are similar, such as dark blue and violet. If you prefer a bolder room, look for colors that have a higher contrast, such as dark forest green and gold.

After selecting your paint colors, it's time to clean your dining room walls. Use a damp sponge or rag to wipe down the area, making sure to remove all dust and buildup. Use a clean, dry towel to dry the walls before applying paint.

When the walls are completely dry, use a roller to apply your first paint color to the entire room. Many homeowners choose to apply the darker color first and then use the lighter color to brighten it up, but ultimately it's a matter of preference. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying the paint and wait the specified amount of time for the base coat to dry.

After the walls are dry, lightly dip a sponge in the second paint color and then blot it onto a paper plate or newspaper to disperse the color. Lightly dab the sponge onto the wall, working in a circular pattern. Be careful not to be too heavy handed when sponging the walls. It's much easier to add an additional layer of sponge painting later than it is to repaint the wall and start over.