How to Paint a Laminate Countertop to Look Like Natural Stone

This project doesn't take a lot of money or special skills, but you will need at least two days to allow for drying time.

Step 1: Clean and Prep

Use painters’ tape to mask off any areas that should not be painted. Carefully tape around sinks or remove them temporarily if you’re able. Use trisodium phosphate (TSP) according to the manufacturer’s instructions to clean the surface of the laminate entirely. Wear gloves to protect your hands.

Step 2: Sand, Then Clean

Sand all of the laminate with coarse sandpaper to rough up the surface. This will prepare the surface for optimum adhesion. Wipe the surface with a lightly damp cloth and then go over it again with a tack cloth to ensure that the surface is free of dust and debris.

Step 3: Prime

Cover the countertop in a high-adhesive, oil-based primer using a smooth roller. Allow it to dry completely before proceeding. Drying time will vary based on the manufacturer’s instructions, but plan on 24 hours to ensure that the primer is dry and cured.

Step 4: Apply Base Coat

Apply the base coat of oil-based enamel with a smooth roller. Use a brush to cut in around the edges. Allow the paint to dry fully before proceeding.
Pro Tip: Make sure there is enough base coat paint to sponge over the other colors at the end.

Step 5: Add Accent Colors

With gloved hands, start with the medium color and a piece of natural sea sponge. Use a portion of the sponge with plenty of holes and texture. Dip it lightly in paint and then blot off excess on paper towels. Begin stamping the base coated surface with the sponge randomly, turning the sponge slightly with each stamp to avoid creating a pattern. Vary the size of the stamps by using only a portion of the sponge. Add more paint as necessary and fill most of the surface with stamps. Allow to dry before proceeding. Repeat the process with the lightest color, but add fewer stamps, spacing them out evenly.
Pro Tip: Do not be alarmed if the pattern looks overwhelming at this point. The final coat will blend the stamps together. Finally, use the sea sponge and the base coat color to knock down some of the lightest color and blend the two accent colors together. Add as much as necessary to balance the three colors.

Step 6: Seal the Surface

Very lightly rub the dried surface with fine-grain steel wool. Wipe away and dust with a tack cloth. Use a non-yellowing, oil-based polyurethane to coat the painted surface with a smooth roller. Cut in around the edges with a brush. Allow the countertop to dry completely before removing the painter's tape.