How to Make a Marble Effect Countertop With Epoxy

A marble effect countertop is a painted marble pattern sealed under a thick, clear pour of epoxy. It takes a few days because each step needs time to dry, but the work itself is manageable for a careful DIYer.

What you need

C-403WF Countertop Epoxy, a bonding primer, white, gray and black acrylic paint, a natural sea sponge, soft brushes, a small foam roller, plastic sheeting, painter's tape and a heat gun or torch.

Steps

1. Round the edges. Epoxy pulls away from sharp edges. Ease the front edge with a router or sanding block so the pour flows over it.
2. Protect the room. Cover cabinets and floors with plastic. Tape the underside of the front edge so drips can be peeled off later.
3. Clean and repair. Degrease the surface, remove old latex caulk (epoxy will not bond to it), and fill seams with body filler. Sand smooth.
4. Prime. Roll on a bonding primer, let it dry overnight, and lightly sand.
5. Paint the marble. Lay down a white base. Draw thin, wandering gray veins with a small brush, then soften them with a damp sponge and a dry brush. Build up layers, adding a darker gray for deeper veins. More layers look more real. Let it dry completely.
6. Pour the epoxy. Mix exactly as directed. Pour onto the backsplash first, then the counter, and spread it evenly. Let it run over the edges.
7. Pop bubbles. Pass a heat gun or torch quickly over the surface a few minutes after pouring. Keep moving so you do not scorch it.
8. Let it cure. Keep dust off it. It will be hard to the touch in about a day. Follow the product page for full cure before regular use.

Tips

• Work in a room within the temperature range on the product page. Cold epoxy is thick and traps bubbles.
• Mix enough for the whole surface in one go. A second batch poured later can leave a visible line.
• Stick to the stated mix ratio. Adding extra hardener will ruin the pour.

Not sure what your slab needs? Call a coating expert at (877) 703-7699, or build your kit and we will size it for you.