Sponge painting was popular in 1980s and 1990s. It uses a natural or synthetic sponges. Natural sponge gives the texture more organic in appearance. While synthetic sponge gives abstract texture pattern of great depth and color. The result looks somewhat like a plaster effect or marbling.
It begins with apply a neutral base coat of paint on the wall. Afterward, it is allowed to dry before apply another color of a similar shade. This complimentary color can be a little lighter or a little darker and allowed to dry completely. Light touch to dab the paint on the wall’s surface is the best method to apply the paint. The sponge is very absorbent, so you have to control it well so that the surface will be painted well. Sponge painting is possible to combine with other techniques like bagging and ragging in order to produce a good blended look.
In fact, sponge painting is the easiest and most versatile decorative paint finish. As mentioned by another source, its benefits are obvious. For instance, it creates a quick texture for any flat painted surface. It is very inexpensive with materials and tools readily available. It is relatively fast and it can range from delicate to bold. So, it can be adapted to any decorating style.