How to Paint Kitchen Countertops to Look Like Granite

Granite is an expensive choice for countertops.

If your countertops are making your kitchen look dated or if you would like the look of granite without the expense, you can paint your counters with a faux granite finish. You can paint nearly any surface to look like granite, including plastic laminate and solid surfaces. It cannot be applied to surfaces that will be submerged in water, such as sinks, bathtubs or shower stalls. Painting is an inexpensive alternative to replacing your countertops and is simple to do.

Things You'll Need

• Dish detergent
• Scouring pad
• Wood filler
• Putty knife
• Sandpaper
• Painters tape
• Primer
• Paint brush
• Roller
• Natural sponge

Instructions

1. Clean your countertops with warm, soapy water. Scrub away dirt and grime with a scouring pad. Rinse with clean water to remove all residue. Allow the counters to dry completely before painting.

2. Patch any nicks and deep scratches on your counters with wood filler. Apply the filler with a putty knife and allow it to dry for two to three hours. Sand away any excess filler until the surface is smooth.

3. Tape around the countertops to protect the walls and appliances with painters tape.

4. Apply a coat of black primer to the surface of the counters. Use a small brush along edges and trim and use a roller on large areas. Wait at least six hours before applying the next coat.

5. Apply a coat of minerals on top of the primer. Use a natural sponge to dab the paint on. Pull straight up in a quick motion so the paint does not smear. Use a light touch for best results. Apply the paint in 2-foot sections at a time. Allow the paint to dry for two hours. Lightly sand the minerals with a fine grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface area for the top coat.

6. Apply the top clear coat with a roller in large areas. Use a brush on edges and hard to reach areas. Allow the clear coat to dry at least two hours and apply a second coat. Allow the second coat to dry for at least 48 hours before setting anything back on your counters.

References

• Danny Lipford; DIY Faux Granite Finish for Kitchen Countertops; Danny Lipford
• Giani Granite: Instructions