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How to Paint With Granite Paint

Granite paint is a faux paint method and product that allows you to cover a surface in a facsimile of granite. It is primarily used on counters in the kitchen and bathroom. The process consists of priming, sponge-painting and rolling on clear coat. The method can be messy and a bit challenging, but the results are quite believable. The process will take a full day, due to drying times for each step, and can take part of an extra day if you add in preparation time. The look is not the same as a real granite countertop, but it is definitely cheaper.

Things You'll Need

  • Household degreaser
  • Water
  • Sponge
  • Towel
  • Painter's tape
  • Utility knife
  • Paint patch
  • Putty knife
  • Sandpaper
  • Primer
  • Paint stick
  • Paint tray
  • Roller
  • Mineral paints
  • Topcoat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the surface that you'll be painting, using a degreaser. Rinse it two times, then wipe it dry with a towel. Allow the surface to air dry for 15 minutes. While it dries, tape around the surface on any area you do not want to paint, using painter's tape. Use the utility knife to trim the edges straight and press the tape down firmly all the way around to seal it and prevent leaking.

    • 2

      Patch any cracks or imperfections with painter patch. Scrape just enough of the substance over the areas to push the material into the cracks, then go over it again with a putty knife at a slight angle to remove any excess. Let it dry the amount of time the instructions require, then lightly sand the spot to make it flush with the rest of the surface. Wipe it down with a damp sponge to remove the dust.

    • 3

      Use the putty knife to pop the lid on the primer, then stir it completely with the paint stick. Pour some into the tray and dip the roller in, rolling it up the textured part of the tray to push the paint into the roller nap. Apply the primer to the entire surface and allow it to dry for eight hours.

    • 4

      Dab the sponge into the granite mineral paint and dot the color onto the primered surface. The pattern is up to you, and you can use multiple colors. Allow four hours of drying time between each color application. A light touch on the sponge will leave less marking; a firm push on the sponge will leave large marks. A light touch is best when using multiple colors.

    • 5

      Finish the project by rolling on the clear coat. It simulates the look of polished granite and will protect and seal the project. Apply three to four coats of clear finish, allowing each coat to dry for four hours. Let the project cure for at least 48 hours before placing anything on the surface.