DIY Network

All Projects

TV Projects

    What Do You Want To Work On?

      What Activity Do You Want To Do?

        0

        Available Projects

        Get Results

        How to Paint a Laminate Countertop

        An economical alternative to replacing laminate countertops is to paint over them. Your results will be surprisingly nice if you prepare the surface thoroughly and use a durable oil-based paint and primer.

        Step 1: Tape off Sink and Clean the Countertop

        Tape off the sink or remove it completely.

        Clean the existing laminate countertop well with a solution of trisodium phosphate. Protect your hands with rubber gloves.

        Step 2: Sand the Laminate

        Sand the laminate to create a rough surface for the paint to cling to, and wipe clean with a tack cloth.

        Step 3: Apply Oil-based Primer and Paint

        Apply a coat of oil-based ivory primer. Allow the countertop to dry for at least 24 hours. Apply a coat of ivory oil-based paint to the countertop.


        Step 4: Sponge-Paint the Countertop

        Sponge-paint complimentary accent colors (light gold and ivory) on the countertop for a soft, mottled look. Pour a small amount of each accent paint onto a plastic plate. Dip the sea sponge into light-gold paint, dab off the excess on a paper towel, and lightly sponge paint onto the countertop. When the first coat is dry, dab on the lighter-colored accent paint.

        Step 5: Seal the Surface with Polyurethane

        When the final coat has dried for 24 hours, seal the surface with a nonyellowing oil-based polyurethane.

        Was this project helpful?

        Don't forget: Read comments and leave your own

        Advertisement

        Projects

        COMMENT ON THIS PROJECT

            

        Sign in

        All fields are required.

        E-mail Address:

        Password:

        Signing in

        Please enter your email address and we will send your password

        E-mail Address

        Your password has been sent and should arrive in your mailbox very soon.

        Not a member?

        Sign up with DIY network to share tips with other do-it-yourselfers and comment and ask questions on projects.

        It's free and easy.