Do It Yourself Fusion Paper Countertop

Fusion paper offers environemental protection enthusiasts with a new opportunity for green living. Advances in technology allow recycled paper made from various original materials to be fused together along with durable materials such as bamboo to form a resilient surface that withstands kitchen activities for many years. Although the fusion of different materials leads to varying thickness that may create installation difficulties along the butt joints, it is a small price to pay for the knowledge your kitchen remodel is a product of green living.

Fusion paper
Measuring tape
Pencil
Transparent tape
Router
Carbide-tipped blades and bits
Hammer
Punch
Phenolic resin
Orbital sander
Finish

Instructions

- 1
  Choose a fusion paper color that matches your kitchen and compare prices, which generally range from $35 to $90 per square foot, to find the best deal. Purchase enough for your kitchen project.
- 2
  Measure and mark the dimensions of your counter surfaces onto the fusion paper countertop material. Add 3/4 inch to the length for overhang. Place transparent tape over your marks to prevent chipping while cutting. Cut the fusion paper panels using a router fitted with a carbide-tipped blade or bit.
- 3
  Mark cut-out dimensions for the sink on the underside of the fusion paper panel and apply transparent tape over your marks. Use a hammer and punch to bore corner holes to insert the router bit in to cut out the center section.
- 4
  Sand down cut edges to avoid scratches or splinters.
- 5
  Apply phenolic resin to the fusion paper along the surfaces that rest on the counter backs and facings, and to any butt joints needed for your countertop. Add resin to both contact surfaces as you install each panel. Cover entire countertop with finish according to manufacturer instructions.

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