Paint Formica Countertops to Look Like Marble
Whether you’re redoing your kitchen or just want to try a new look, painting Formica countertops is a great way to make the space stand out. But before you jump in with both feet, there are a few steps you should know.
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First, it’s important to make sure your counters are clean and free of dust or debris. Use a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grit. After that, measure the surface area of your countertop. This will give you an idea of how much paint you’ll need. If you don’t have a paint tray, you can use plastic sheeting or a drop cloth to protect the counters.
Next, you’ll need a small artist’s brush or a feather to draw veins. This will help you achieve a marble-like effect without having to actually purchase marble. You can also use a sea sponge to create light or dark variations on your countertop. If you have a paint scraper, you can get rid of any drips or nicks. You can also do a test run on a practice board.
The secret to getting the best results is in the technique you use. You’ll need to be careful, and you don’t want to paint the same pattern across the entire surface. The trick is to blend. This isn’t as easy as it sounds, and you’ll probably need to make several passes. Using different sized artist’s brushes is a good way to get the look you’re after.
You’ll need a primer, as well as a few colors to choose from. The best primer for the job is a product like True Value EasyCare latex paint. You can find this in satin or flat finishes. You’ll need to leave it on the countertop for at least eight hours before applying the paint. This will help the paint adhere.
If you’re attempting to replicate the appearance of marble, you’ll need to use a small brush to mimic the veins. This could be a feather, a paintbrush or even a sea sponge. If you’re unsure what size you’ll need, you can buy a kit that includes all of the materials. You’ll also need a small roller or cloth to apply the primer. The white primer will cover up to 100 square feet of counter space, so you’ll need to use it wisely.
The best way to paint your countertops is to apply a coat of white primer, and let it dry for at least four hours. You can use a paint roller to do the job, or you can do it by hand. Using a foam brush to edge the corners of the countertop will also work. A 2″ foam brush will do a better job, and it should leave a wet edge that can be used for the next step. You’ll need to do a couple of passes to ensure you’ve covered the whole surface.
The best part about this project is that you can save money and give your kitchen a whole new look. Just remember to do your research and buy the right paint for your countertop.