Instead of spending a fortune on renovations, create your own DIY countertops to reinvigorate your kitchen. Be inspired with these 9 ideas that’ll transform your cooking area and keep your costs down.
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Refresh Your Kitchen for a Fraction of the Cost With These 9 DIY Countertops
1. Marble Countertop
It can be costly when you want to change your entire preparation area into an authentic marble slab. However, with this DIY countertop, you can make a marble-inspired replica for a reasonable price.
Achieve a limestone-looking surface by using contact paper that’s marble-patterned. With a smaller amount, you can make your counter slick and polished. You can also be resourceful and use a card to smoothen out imperfections.
Apart from contact paper, you can also use paint to attain a marble look. In this process, layering is the key. You have to unleash your artistic side as well to create realistic feathers and veins.
2. Glossy Countertop
You don’t need to get tired of cleaning your countertop just to make it shiny. Get rid of those rags, and get a paintbrush instead.
Choose a monochromatic shade to make your prep station elegant. If you have dark cabinets, you can opt for a lighter hue for your counter.
Clean your countertop, then sand it lightly so your paint will stick better. Don’t forget to remove any residue before coating it with a primer and applying layers of paint. Keep in mind to reach all the way up to the smallest sections of the surface.
If you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty, you can apply glitters for an added texture and dimension.
3. Old Door Countertop
Repurpose your old doors, and transform them into a work surface in your kitchen. This DIY countertop adds a warm vibe to your room. Plus, it’ll last for years since it’s durable.
Remove your laminate countertop, and use it as your template. Place it on top of your wooden door, then trace its shape. Cut, sand, and stain your door to carry off a refined look.
Once you’re ready to install your new counter, lay your wooden door and screw it in place. Remember to inspect it for some cracks or damages. You can add veneer edging to cover the inner particleboard.
4. Chalkboard Countertop
Even for a small space, the cost of soapstone can be way above your budget. However, you can still imitate its timeless look by copying the matte appearance of a chalkboard.
Start with plain plywood, then use chalkboard paint and a transparent protective finish. Apply these coats using a sponge roller.
Don’t worry if you’ll notice some stains and water spots. After all, they can bring a natural effect to your counter. The end product will look like that soft stone composed of various minerals.
5. Stainless Steel Countertop
You might think that stainless steel gets scratched easily and is only suitable for utility spaces like your laundry room. However, you can also look at it as a stylish and easy-to-clean kitchen worktop. It’s also heat-tolerant and stain-resistant.
This type of counter is reliable and has a lot of things to offer in a hardworking cooking area. It also offers a professional mood since it incorporates a look that you can see in restaurants.
With this DIY countertop, you can combine modern and traditional prep zone. Most chefs can also vouch for its toughness as it can stand up even to the most rugged treatment.
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6. Tile Countertop
Make your kitchen look spacious, bright, and modern using tiles for your DIY countertop.
Even if you don’t have extensive DIY skills, you can still install these tiles on your counter. You can either go for a hexagon pattern painted in yellow and white for that retro feel. On the other hand, a square layout is ideal if you’re after simplicity.
You can also opt for handcrafted tiles which results in a rustic vibe. They add a European touch to your cooking area.
If your prep zone will be subject to the daily grind, you can choose porcelain tiles. These consist of different minerals and clays which form a durable material that’s even harder than ceramic.
7. Granite Countertop
To update your old kitchen countertop, use heavy-duty contact paper that looks similar to granite. Keep in mind to apply it carefully so it would resemble that of a natural mineral. Additionally, it’s only temporary so you can remove it if you’re renting and moving out.
Another way to make faux granite is by painting. Sand your kitchen countertop so it would be ready to receive paint.
Select three paint colors ranging from black to gray shades. Dab the paint using a sea sponge then finish it off with a protective coat. You can also include glitter to copy the depth of the real stone.
8. Resurfaced Countertop
Since your kitchen is one of the most used areas in your home, finding time to remodel it can be difficult. Instead of replacing your whole countertop, you can maximize your existing work surface, and make the best out of it.
If you have a laminate counter, you can turn its worn condition into a new-looking and durable prep zone. Apply the base coat, sand the surface, then coat it with a protective finish. On the other hand, if it’s made of wood, you can opt to aim for a distressed finish.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with various materials and textures. You can choose among different self-sticking laminate and paint to pull off your desired surface. This way, you’ll only spend a fraction compared to the cost of replacing your whole counter.
9. Concrete Countertop
Making a concrete countertop sounds challenging, but it’s rewarding at the same time. If you’re new to this material, you can keep your DIY countertop simple. You can finish this project in a few weekends time.
Measure your current work surface, and create the mold where you’ll pour your concrete into. Additionally, create a frame to support the surrounding area. Keep in mind that concrete is heavy, and you don’t want its edges to bend with its heaviness.
Don’t worry if it’ll come out with imperfections. You can sand it out until the whole surface feels smooth and even.
Aside from DIY countertops, you can invest in items such as cabinets while still staying within your budget. Watch this video by Alexandra Gater to get more ideas on how you can upgrade your kitchen:
With countertops being subject to everyday wear and tear, you have to replace them eventually. Enjoy both savings and mind-blowing modifications for your kitchen with these DIY countertops.
What other ideas do you have in mind for your next DIY countertops? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!
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