Hey everyone! I’ve recently embarked on a journey to make my home more eco-friendly, starting with the walls. I’ve been experimenting with natural paints from Earthborn Paints and Auro, and I’m loving the results so far. But here’s where I need your help—I’m trying to achieve a textured finish using natural sponges, and I’m curious about your experiences.
I’ve tried a couple of techniques on a small section of my wall. One method involved dabbing the sponge lightly over a base coat of Earthborn’s Claypaint, which gave a subtle, organic texture. Another attempt was with Auro’s Plant-Based Paint, where I used a more vigorous dabbing motion, resulting in a more pronounced texture. Both paints adhered well to the plaster walls, and the sponges didn’t absorb too much paint, which was a relief.
I’m particularly interested in how different types of natural sponges affect the finish. Has anyone tried using sea sponges versus cellulose sponges? Also, any tips on maintaining the sponge’s integrity over multiple uses? Let’s share our experiences and tips for achieving beautiful, eco-friendly textured walls!
Hey @EcoPainter88! I’ve been using natural sponges for textured finishes for a couple of years now, and I must say, the difference between sea sponges and cellulose sponges is quite noticeable. Sea sponges tend to give a more varied and organic texture, which I absolutely love for creating a natural look. On the other hand, cellulose sponges are great for a more uniform texture. As for maintaining them, I always make sure to rinse them thoroughly after each use and let them dry completely. This has helped me keep the same sponges for multiple projects!
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Thanks for the tips, @GreenThumb99! I’ll definitely try rinsing and drying my sponges more carefully. Do you have any specific brands of sea sponges you recommend? I’m looking to experiment with different textures.
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I’ve had a great experience using Earthborn’s Claypaint with natural sponges. The key for me was to not overload the sponge with paint. A little goes a long way, and it helps in achieving that subtle texture you’re after. Also, rotating the sponge as you dab can create a more dynamic pattern. Just my two cents!
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That’s a great tip about rotating the sponge, @WallWhisperer! I’ll give that a try on my next section. How do you find the durability of the textured finish over time?
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Anyone else find it oddly satisfying to dab paint with a sponge? Just me? Okay… But seriously, I’ve been using cellulose sponges with Auro’s Plant-Based Paint and the results are fantastic. The texture is consistent, and the paint dries to a beautiful matte finish. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, which is a huge win in my book!
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Haha, @SpongeBobSquareWall, you’re not alone! There’s something therapeutic about it. I’m glad to hear you’re having success with cellulose sponges and Auro’s Paint. I’ll have to give that combination a try. Thanks for sharing!
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I’ve experimented with both sea and cellulose sponges, and I agree with @GreenThumb99 about the differences in texture. One thing I’ve found helpful is to have a few sponges on hand with different pore sizes. This allows for more versatility in the textures you can create. Also, soaking the sponges in water before use can help prevent them from absorbing too much paint.
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That’s a brilliant idea, @NatureLover23! Having sponges with different pore sizes sounds like a game-changer for achieving varied textures. I’ll definitely try soaking them before use as well. Thanks for the advice!
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I’ve been down the natural sponge route too, and I agree, sea sponges are the way to go for that authentic, organic vibe. But here’s a tip I picked up - soaking the sponge in water before use can really help in achieving a softer texture. It’s a game changer for those of us aiming for subtlety over starkness.
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Interesting take on the sea sponges! I’ve actually found that cellulose sponges, when cut into smaller pieces, can offer a bit more control for detailed work. Especially in corners or around edges. Plus, they’re a bit easier on the wallet if you’re covering a large area. Just my two cents!
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Totally get what you’re saying about the sponges, but have you guys tried mixing techniques? Like, using a sea sponge for the main texture and then going in with a smaller cellulose sponge for accents? It’s a bit more work, but the depth it adds to the finish is unreal. Also, eco-friendly paints are the best, right? No nasty smells and they dry super quick.
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I’ve been using cellulose sponges with Auro’s Plant-Based Paint and found they give a really nice, even texture. The trick is to keep the sponge damp but not wet, which helps spread the paint more evenly. Also, cleaning the sponge right after use keeps it in good shape for next time.
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Sea sponges are my go-to for a more natural, varied texture. They can be a bit pricier, but the unique patterns they create are worth it. Just make sure to rinse them thoroughly before first use to get rid of any sea salt or debris.
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I tried both types of sponges and honestly, it comes down to the look you’re going for. Cellulose sponges are great for a uniform texture, while sea sponges offer that organic, one-of-a-kind finish. Mixing techniques can also lead to some interesting results.
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Maintaining sponge integrity is key. I always make sure to clean them with warm water and a bit of soap after each use. Letting them dry completely before the next project prevents mold and keeps them ready for action.
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For those interested in sustainability, it’s worth noting that cellulose sponges are biodegradable, making them an eco-friendly option. Pairing them with natural paints like Earthborn’s Claypaint or Auro’s Plant-Based Paint aligns well with an eco-conscious lifestyle.
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Experimenting with different dabbing pressures and angles can really change the game. I found that lighter dabs with a slightly twisted wrist motion create a more dynamic texture. It’s all about playing around and seeing what works best for your space.
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Totally get what you mean about the satisfying dabbing! I’ve been using sea sponges with Earthborn’s Claypaint and the texture is just so unique every time. It’s like each dab tells a story. Eco-friendly paints are the way to go, and it’s awesome to see more people getting into it.
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I’ve tried both sea and cellulose sponges, and honestly, it’s a toss-up. Sea sponges give a more varied texture, which I love for feature walls. But cellulose sponges are great for consistency, especially if you’re doing a larger area. Either way, it’s all about the technique and how much paint you load onto the sponge.
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