A container for inks, paints, cosmetics, and the like, having a sponge applicator affixed within the container's threaded cap, is provided. When the cap is attached to the container, the sponge fits closely within a perforated mask located in the neck of the container. The mask controls the amount of material that can be transferred to and carried by the applicator when it is removed from the container. In preferred embodiments, the sponge applicator is automatically extended from the cap as the cap is removed from the container, and is automatically retracted into the cap as the cap is screwed onto the container.