Is your kitchen starting to show its age? Perhaps hitting the plus 20 mark? Some the remains from the 1970s or 1980s still hanging around? Are you really tired of your kitchen? Painting laminate countertop will give your kitchen a whole new look and all for under $50.
It’s understandable that we get sick of that dated countertop but too often we just don’t have the extra money needed to replace the countertop. Not to worry, you can radically change the appearance of your counters in just a few days just by painting the tops. If you have good freehand skills great, but most of us don’t so you’ll want to buy some stencils.
There is an excellent variety of stencils available on the market, especially online. There are plenty of sites offering good choices at great prices. Create a strand of ivy, add flowers, or perhaps geometric patterns are your thing. Pick your passion.
Don’t be afraid to use color. Color is what will give your project that professional finish. And don’t be afraid to play with texture too. Sponges, brushes, rags, or any number of tools will give you different textured effects.
If stencils aren’t your thing then how about doing a sponge finish. Faux marble looks great! Grab your sponge and paints and get busy. No matter what you decide to do you need to start by painting your base color on the counters.
You’ll need to purchase your paints. For your design or stencil work I prefer oil based paints but 100% acrylic is okay too and easier to clean up. Oil will cure faster and harder and adheres better to the surface but they are smellier and messier to clean up.
You can buy the paints at any craft store locally or online. They are available in a variety of sizes. If you aren’t going to be doing any other projects choose the smallest size. These paints go a long way.
For the base paint color you’ll want to buy a melamine or plastic coat paint. This type of paint will give you the best durability and wear.
Now remember painting on your laminate is going to wreck the surface but chances are after 20 or 30 years its wrecked already. So what have you got to loose?
Here’s how to make the transformation:
1. Clean the counters with warm soapy water making sure all dirt and grease is removed. Then dry.
2. Use a medium grit sandpaper to scuff the surface up. This will help the paint adhere.
3. Vacuum after to remove all the dust.
4. Now it’s time to paint the put your solid color on the counter using a roller. Let dry
5. Apply the second coat
6. Now is the time to do your stenciling work.
7. Allow your work to dry for two days
8. Apply your first coat of clear urethane, let dry
9. Sand lightly
10. Apply another coat of urethane
11. Repeat until the desired gloss is required.
Every six months or so apply a new coat of urethane to keep the surface well protected and looking good. For under $50 just by painting laminate countertop your kitchen has a brand new look.
