How to Faux-Finish a Concrete Kitchen Counter

Painted faux finishes that look like unpolished stone can be used successfully on concrete kitchen counters. The stippling method of application results in a relatively smooth-textured finish with blended colors. Add rustic grout lines to create the look of expensive stone tiles. Most of the supplies needed for this project can be purchased at your local home improvement store. Allow several hours for completion.

Things You'll Need

• Low nap roller
• Sponge applicators or paintbrushes
• White low-luster latex enamel paint
• Painters tape (optional)
• Flat latex paint in white and at least two different earth tone shades
• Latex paint conditioner
• Small bucket
• Paint stick
• Stippler brush
• Cheesecloth
• Matte clear finish sealer

Instructions

1. Apply a base coat of white low luster latex enamel to the concrete surface. Allow the paint to dry.

2. Mask off grout lines if desired, using the painter's tape.

3. Mix a flat glaze with one part flat latex paint, one part latex paint conditioner and one part water in a small bucket.

4. Apply a flat earth-tone glaze in random strokes using a sponge applicator or paintbrush. Cover about half of the concrete surface.

5. Repeat with another flat earth-tone glaze in the same fashion covering most of the remaining areas. Leave a few areas of the base coat unglazed.

6. Stipple over the surface using a stippler. Blend the colors as desired, leaving some areas dark, and allow the base coat to show through in other areas. Allow to dry completely.

7. Remove painter's tape if you have masked off grout lines.

8. Make a wash by combining one part of white flat latex paint with two to three parts of water in small bucket.

9. Apply the wash with a wadded-up piece of cheesecloth to soften the finish. Allow to dry.

10. Apply one coat of matte sealer to the finish and let dry.

References

• The Complete Guide to Painting and Decorating, Editors of Creative Publishing, 1999