How to Paint Countertops to Look Like Granite

Granite countertops are a beautiful addition to any kitchen but the cost of natural granite may not fit your budget. Fortunately, there is a technique to paint inexpensive plastic laminate countertops so that they resemble granite. Sponge painting is a simple process and suitable for a novice to home improvement and faux painting techniques although you may want to practice your method on a board before you try it on the countertop.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Water
• Vinegar
• Electric sander
• 100 grit sandpaper
• Primer
• Paint brush
• Paint
• Metallic paint
• Three sea sponges
• Clear coat

1. Clean the countertop with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar to remove any grease or dirt from the surface.

2. Sand the countertop with an electric sander loaded with 100 grit sandpaper.

3. Paint the countertop with a high adhesion alcohol based primer. Allow the primer to dry.

4. Choose the paint colors for your countertop by examining a piece of real granite in the color scheme you desire. You will need to choose three colors consisting of one light shade, one medium shade, and one dark shade.

5. Apply a silver or gold metallic paint to the counter with a paint brush. Natural granite has a slight shimmer which can be reproduced on the countertop with metallic paint. Choose gold paint for warm tones and silver for cool tones. Allow the metallic paint to dry before continuing.

6. Sponge paint the medium shade of paint over the counter. The purpose is to replicate the natural variations in granite so don't worry about covering the entire surface. Repeat this process with the dark color and then the light color, using a clean sponge for each color.

7. Allow the paint to dry and then apply at least three coats of a water based clear coat over the counter to create a shiny surface and protect the paint from stains and damage.

References

• "Paint saves the day;" Lucianna Samu; 2009