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DIY Faux Granite Counter Tops

Published by Kelly // Join The Conversation: 34 Comments

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DIY Faux Granite Counter Tops

DIY Faux Granite Counter Tops

For the last several months I have been looking for ways to update our home, that will not break the bank.  Here are my top 6 Easy DIY Home Improvements!  After the success I had with cabinet glazing and re-doing the bathroom floors, I wanted to tackle my counter in the laundry room!  I decided to try DIY Faux Granite Counter Tops!

How to Get Started

I chose the Giani Granite Countertop Kit.  For a couple reasons, it came with everything I needed and had extremely easy to follow instructions and videos!  Here are some facts about the kit:

  • It covers up to 35 square feet  (I had plenty left over!)
  • The directions were super easy to follow.
  • Everything you need is included!  From each paint color to sponges and brushes.
  • For less than $100, start to finish, I was able to create a new look for my counter top.

Getting Ready

Clean and prep the surface.  I used a non-toxic cleaner to clean the surface.  Per the instructions, use a scouring pad if you need to remove grease build up.  As this was a laundry room counter, it was pretty easy to clean up!

Cut the sponges into pieces and set a side.

Easy Step by Step Instructions

Step 1

Use painter’s tape to tape off the walls to prevent bleed through. Cover your cabinets too if needed.

prepping counter tops
Roll on the primer in 2×2 foot sections. Use the foam brush for any creases.

Step 2

Roll on primer!  Your base color is black.  Be sure to shake well prior to application.  The instructions suggest applying in 2 foot areas at a time with the paint roller that is provided.  Use the sponge applicator to apply to any crevices.

Step 3

Wait 8 hours to dry before moving on to the next step.

cans of paint
Use the cut up sponge pieces to apply the mineral colors!

Step 4

Now is the fun part!  You start applying the “mineral” colors with the sponge pieces.  They suggest blending the colors, however, I liked the affect better when I let the layers dry.  Again, work in 2×2 foot sections.  You can check out the Giani mineral application video HERE!

sponging of paint on counter
Each color is layered. I let each of my layers dry for 30 minutes as I did not like the “blended” look by applying each additional color when wet.

Step 5

Roll on clear topcoat.  And this only needs a THIN layer.  If you do a thick layer you may get air bubbles or “lumps”.  It is a pale blue when wet and dries clear.

Step 6

Let it dry!!!

Side note:  I did not want a very dark counter as it is in a small area.  So I was heavier on the lighter colors so it would not be so dark!  So you have several options

after picture
A whole NEW look!

Conclusion

Although this was an easy, inexpensive DIY and I LOVE how it turned out.  There is definitely a skill in applying the mineral paints with consistency.  So you need to be patient.  Giani also provides black paper for you to practice your technique.  I would definitely suggest doing that!  I hope this DIY Faux Granite Counter Tops helps you decide whether this is the right project for you!

 

 

 

 

This is the kit I used!  Purchase HERE from Amazon!

 

Above all, thank you for spending your time here at Colorado Kelly!  I love having you here and appreciate everyone that comes to visit and look forward to having you come back soon!

 

 

   

about kelly

About Kelly

Kelly is passionate about helping people feel beautiful from the inside out! She also loves helping people create thriving at home businesses! If you are interested in learning more about Kelly's journey Read more here...

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Comments

  2. Laura Allen

    Now that I’m a homeowner, I feel like I need to do all the fun, inexpensive home upgrades! This looks so easy and so fun! It really looks like granite, which is CRAZY! What a cool project, thank you for sharing!!

    Reply

  3. Caylee Connelly

    Ah! I am so excited to see how this turned out! My husband and I have been thinking about updating the counters in our condo but didn’t want to spend a fortune on a whole new counter. This is something we’ve been thinking of doing so it is awesome to see how amazing yours turned out!

    Reply

    • Kelly

      Thank you! I don’t think it looks exactly like granite, but it has changed the look of the laundry room for the better!

  5. Lisa

    Wow, I never knew this was a thing! What a great way to update counters without having to spend the time and money to fully replace them. I like this!

    Reply

  14. Gina Abernathy

    My bathroom countertops are in need of an upgrade. This looks like it would be a fun project. What do you think about the paint chipping off if something scratches it or is dropped on it? I would love to do this in farmhouse colors.

    Reply

    • Kelly

      Honestly, if it did chip, I think it would very easy to repaint or touch up if needed. So far, I haven’t had an issue!

  16. Stephanie

    What a fun way to elevate the space. Granite can be so insanely expensive, so it helps to have tips like this to hack it a bit! Good in a pinch, and can look really beautiful too! You did a great job.

    Reply

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