How to Make a Bar Overhang Countertop Out of Plywood

Determine the width and length of the countertop. If you plan to add seating, the countertop should extend about 18 inches beyond the edge of the cabinet or other support.

Measure two sections of 5/8-inch-thick plywood to the dimensions of the countertop with a measuring tape. Snap a chalk like at the measurement marks to form an outline of the countertop.

Cut the plywood sections along the chalk lines with a table saw. Place one of the plywood sections on the cabinet or other support.

Drill pilot holes through the plywood section into the support at 4-inch intervals. Insert and tighten 4-inch wood screws through the pilot holes with an electric screwdriver to secure the plywood to the support.

Apply wood glue to the attached plywood. Place the second plywood section on top of the first section and align the edges. Tighten C-clamps along the perimeter of the plywood sections and allow the glue to dry overnight.

Remove the C-clamps. Sand the edges of the plywood sections with a palm sander.

Cut 2-inch-wide strips of laminate with a jigsaw to fit the edges of the countertop. Apply contact cement to the strips and the countertop edges and allow the cement to dry. Place the strips on the countertop edges and press them into place with a paint roller.

Run a router along the edges of the countertop to trim excess laminate.

Cut a section of laminate 1 inch larger than the dimensions of the countertop. Apply contact cement to the laminate and the countertop with a paint roller. Allow the contact cement to dry.

Place 1/2-inch-diameter dowel rods on the countertop at 12-inch intervals. Lay the laminate on top of the dowel rods, leaving 1/2 inch of overhang on all sides. Working from the center, remove the dowel rods and press the laminate in place with a clean paint roller.

Trim the excess laminate with a router. Use a file to remove sharp edges from the corners.