How to Paint Formica with a Metal Finish Paint

Formica counter tops can be painted with nearly any type of paint after being properly prepared. A high-adhesion, alcohol-based primer will allow paint to bond with the counter top and help create the desired look in your kitchen or bathroom. The surface can then be strengthened by topping with a coat of clear polyurethane to create a usable work surface that will last for years. Use a metallic paint for the high-end look of stainless steel, bronze or copper.

Soap
Water
Towel
100-grit sandpaper
Alcohol-based primer
Paint brush
Denatured alcohol
Oil-based metallic paint
Stirring stick
Paint roller
Oil-based clear polyurethane
400-grit wet/dry sandpaper

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the surface of the Formica thoroughly with soapy water to remove any dirt or grease from the counter top. Dry the counter after wiping with a clean hand towel.
- 2
  Roughen the surface of the Formica by sanding firmly with 100-grit sandpaper. An electric sander is not required for sanding but will speed up the process. Remove any dust or particles created by the sanding.
- 3
  Apply an alcohol-based primer to the Formica with a paint brush. Clean the brush with denatured alcohol after painting to remove all traces of the primer.
- 4
  Open the can of oil-based metallic paint and stir well to ensure that the color is consistent throughout. Apply the metallic paint to the Formica with a paint roller. Let dry.
- 5
  Apply a second coat of metallic paint and allow to dry completely before you continue.
- 6
  Apply two coats of oil-based clear polyurethane to the counter top with a paint brush, allowing each coat to dry completely before you apply the next.
- 7
  Sand the dry second coat of polyurethane with 400-grit wet/dry sandpaper used wet. Dry the counter with a towel.
- 8
  Apply a third coat of polyurethane and allow the counter to dry. Sand one final time with the wet 400-grit sandpaper.

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