Instructions for Faux-Painted Granite Counter Tops

Faux-painting an old countertop to look like granite is an easy and inexpensive way to update your kitchen design. Faux-painting kits are available that include all the necessary supplies you'll need to transform your countertop in just a few hours.
While most manufacturers only produce a few colors of kit for sale, you can customize your counter by adding more or less of each color in the kit, or removing one color all together. If you choose to customize, test out your colors on pieces of plywood first to ensure a pleasing mixture.

Countertop cleaning supplies
Faux-painting granite kit
Clear acrylic urethane top coat
Paint roller

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the old counter well. Remove any grease, oil, wax or debris that could interfere with the bond of the paint. Let the counter dry completely before painting.
- 2
  Roll the base coat of paint over the old countertop. Check to ensure that all areas of the old color are completely covered. The result will be a flat, solid colored surface.
- 3
  Use the provided sponge in the kit to dab a second color onto the first. Press the sponge in a random pattern over the entire counter. Granite is a natural stone that has a lot of variation, so keep the pattern random for an authentic look.
- 4
  Use a second sponge to apply a third color to the counter. Keep this application random as well, avoiding some areas and applying more to others for a pleasing blend of light and dark. Let the paint dry overnight.
- 5
  Roll on a clear topcoat of urethane to protect the paint and make your countertop waterproof. Ensure complete coverage for best protection, and let the urethane dry for 24 hours.

Definition of a Faux Finish

What Is Faux Wood?

Faux Finishing