Stenciled Counter Tops

• Clean counter tops to remove any grease or oil residue. If the counter tops are grimy, a solution of tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) will get them clean. Sand with a medium-grit sandpaper (150-grit) to roughen the finish. Wipe the counter top clean of sanding dust.
  
  Apply two coats of oil-based primer, allowing drying between coats. Apply two coats of the oil-based paint. Stencils are available at arts and crafts stores. When paint is completely dry, apply the stenciled design to the top outer edge and the back splash. Use acrylic paint for the stenciled design.
  
  Finish the counter top with two to three coats of polyurethane floor finish, sanding lightly between coats. If the finish on the counter top starts dulling in the future, lightly sand and apply a coat of the clear polyurethane to restore the shine.
  
  

Metal Flake

• Clean the counter top and apply the primer and top coats of paint in the same manner as above. Mix one or two packets of metal flakes, available in the paint department of most home centers, into the first coat of polyurethane. Sand lightly when dry, and then apply two more coats of polyurethane with out the metal flake. This gives the effect of the metal flakes floating on the counter top.
  
  

Faux Granite

• Apply primer and two coats of background paint. Dab on two or three different colors of paint with a natural sea sponge. Whenever you feel that you have applied too much of the top coats, apply the background color with the sea sponge to balance the finish. This finish is a matter of personal taste. Some like the background color to be dominant and others prefer the top coating colors, with only a hint of the background color showing through. Experiment until the appearance appeals to you.
  
  

Stainless Steel Finish

• Stainless steel finishes are available in kits that contain all the products necessary to obtain the ultra modern look of stainless steel counter tops. One kit will cover approximately 16 running feet of counter top.
  
  Clean the surface of the counter top and roll on the primer with a foam roller. The primer requires six hours to dry. The stainless steel finish is rolled on using three coats and allowing to dry 30 minutes between coats. Watch carefully for brush marks and roller marks, because they will be very evident on the finished counter top. Apply the clear top coat. Allow eight hours for drying and apply the second coat. The finish requires 48 hours to dry and harden before placing small appliances or anything else on the counter top.