Natural sponge comes from the ocean it is the remnant body of an animal from the family of poriferans. When alive sponges are jelly-like and form on the ocean floor often in and around reefs.

Some sponges, generally those used for cleaning are man-made from synthetic materials. Sponges are very absorbent and an artist can use a sponge for many different cleaning and painting applications.

For decorative painting techniques see: Sea Sponge or Sponging.