Quck answer
Painting faux granite on laminate kitchen countertops is a cost-effective way to update the look of your kitchen. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
1. Clean and prep the countertops: Remove any dirt, grease, or old paint from the surface. Sand the laminate to create a rough texture for better adhesion.
2. Apply a primer: Use a high-quality primer designed for laminate surfaces. Apply it evenly with a brush or roller and let it dry completely.
3. Create a granite effect: Use a sponge or a brush to apply a base coat in a light color, such as beige or gray. Once dry, use a sea sponge to dab on different shades of paint, such as black, brown, and white, to create a granite-like pattern.
4. Seal the countertops: Apply a clear polyurethane sealer to protect the painted surface. Let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Enjoy your new countertops: Once the sealer is dry, your faux granite countertops are ready to use. They will give your kitchen a fresh, modern look without the high cost of real granite.
If you can’t afford to replace your laminate countertops with real granite, you can still give them a stylish makeover using a faux painting technique. With some basic paint supplies and a little creativity, you can transform your kitchen’s appearance. Before you start, find a granite tile that inspires you. This will help you choose the right colors for your countertop paint.
Preparing the Countertops
Begin by sanding the laminate countertops with coarse-grit sandpaper to create a textured surface that will make it easier for the paint and sealer to adhere. After sanding, thoroughly clean the countertops with warm soapy water to remove any dust. Make sure to dry them completely before you start painting.
Applying Primer
Use a paint roller to apply one coat of alcohol-based primer to the countertops. Choose a primer that is specifically designed for non-porous surfaces. The color of the primer doesn’t matter because it will be covered with another layer of paint. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Choosing Paint Colors
Select four colors for your faux granite effect and purchase them in satin or flat latex paints. One color will be the base color, while the other three will be accent colors.
Painting the Base
Paint the dry countertops with the paint tinted to match the base color of your chosen granite. If necessary, apply a second coat of paint once the first coat is completely dry.
Sponging on Accent Colors
Pour one of the accent colors into a paint tray and dip a natural sea sponge into the paint. Lightly pat the sponge onto the dry painted countertop, creating a random pattern. Repeat this step with the second accent color once the first one is dry. This will give your countertop a base color with two different accent colors.
Adding the Third Accent Color
Mix a small amount of the third accent color with water to create a thin glaze. Dip a stiff-bristle paintbrush into the glaze and shake it over the countertop to create a splattered effect. This random application will help achieve a realistic granite appearance.
Applying the Sealer
Once the glaze is completely dry, use a paint roller to apply three coats of oil-based polyurethane to the countertops. Allow each coat to dry according to the instructions on the can, or for at least four hours, before applying the next coat. Once the polyurethane is dry, sand it with extra-fine-grit sandpaper until it feels smooth.
