Sponge Painting-A Process Art Tutorial

Have you been searching for a fun new Process Art Project? In addition to being fun-sponge painting supports motor skills, creativity, and sensory input!

The first step is gathering your materials:
Materials

• Clothespins

• Cellulose Sponges
• Fingerpaint Paper (or cardstock)
• Fingerpaint (or paint of choice) in a variety of colors
• Shallow containers for paint

We're ready to set up this invitation to create!

You will want to:

• Cut the sponges in half. Then fold each half in half, and clip with the clothespin (see photo above).
• Fill shallow containers (you could also use old lids or paper plates) with the desired amount of paint. You might consider putting two primary colors near each paper so they can blend the colors to create secondary colors. 
• Prepare the paper by writing the children's names on the back. 
• Set out paint smocks (over-sized tee shirts work great!) if desired.
• Consider having some wipes or wet washcloths nearby for quick cleanup along with a container to collect materials when finished. 

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Okay, you're ready! Time to dive in!

Begin by explaining the process to the children. Encourage them to feel the sponges before they are dipped in paint. What do they feel like? Can you squeeze them? What happens when you pinch the clothespin?  
After a brief tutorial, let the exploration and creation begin. 

One of the beautiful aspects of Process Art is the different ways the creation can be made. Some children may choose to use the sponge as a stamp, making prints all over the paper. 

Others may choose to smear the paint around and blend the colors. 

One child chose to make hand prints on their creation! 
*Tip: This is a great time to pull out another sheet of paper and ask the child to make a handprint for craft projects later. 

Make sure you have a place set up for drying the creations, plan for at least 2-3 creations per student. 

The artists may choose to have a frame for their masterpiece, this simple one is made from cardstock.

With a container nearby and cloths or wipes cleanup is a breeze and you can move onto your next play adventure in no time!

Extend the fun:
To extend the fun consider using different types of paper, sponges and paint!

Happy Creating!