PAINTING FORMICA TO LOOK LIKE GRANITE & TUTORIAL

    PAINTING FORMICA TO LOOK LIKE GRANITE & TUTORIAL

 Today, I started a new job painting and changing kitchen formica counter tops to a faux granite finish.  I have painted formica several times. Once it was formica that was badly stained. And, several times I have painted for clients who just wanted to change their decor. They wanted the look of stone, but didn't want to deal with the expense of authentic granite or other stone surfaces. Painting formica has always made a big difference in the look of the room.       

     Done correctly, painting formica will always give you a nice and durable new look. I'm using a faux granite kit that came from a hardware store. It does take several layers of paint and it's very important to follow the instructions and let it dry really well or "cure" before painting the next coat. To keep it looking nice, you do have to be careful and not put hot pans, chemicals or other things that might damage the surface. If you had a granite or stone counter top, you probably wouldn't do any of those things, anyway.

     Below are photos of before and after I put the first coat of paint.  That paint was a special black primer that came in the kit. Tomorrow, I will apply the paint for the granite look and I'll add photos of that. The third day, I will be sealing the surface with a high sheen that will give the appearance of a nicely polished granite surface.

     This is the first time I've used a kit for the granite finish. But, my client had already purchased the product. So, if you don't want to go to the expense of the kit, this is what I've done before: I always sanded lightly to roughen the surface. Then, I applied a "bonding" primer and I always use OIL primer. Always oil!! It just seems to bond better. Next, I applied the paint with a brush, rag or sponge to get the look I wanted. Then, I always applied three coats of  an acrylic sealer. This does take several days to do the whole process, but it's sooo important to let each layer of paint "cure" in between coats. And, it will give you a great new look for your kitchen, laundry, desk top, etc.

     If you are wanting to try this new look, please feel free to ask and I'll try to answer any questions that you might have. 

Be Brave!! You Can Do It, Too!!
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Please remember it is a "painted" surface like furniture.  It won't be as durable as real formica.
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HERE IS A LINK TO THE FINISHED COUNTER TOPS:
PAINTING FORMICA TO LOOK LIKE GRANITE (PART II)

HERE IS A LINK TO THE FINISHED COUNTER TOPS:

PAINTING FORMICA TO LOOK LIKE GRANITE (PART II)

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