How to Apply a Faux-Concrete Countertop Finish

Concrete countertops are popular—they're durable, versatile and easy to clean, and they give off a chic industrial look. But oftentimes they have to be custom built for the home—meaning costs can climb quickly. Luckily, there's an easy DIY solution—a faux-concrete finish. A basic MDF countertop receives a facelift with the help of a gray feather finish, sandpaper, and sealer, and we'll show you how to do it.

Other Ways to Use Industrial Style in the Kitchen

What You Need

• Plastic drop cloth
• MDF countertop
• Primer
• Safety glasses and face mask
• 5-gallon bucket
• Ardex Feather Finish in gray, 10 pounds
• Electric drill and mixing attachment
• Putty knife
• Plastic scraper
• Electric sander or sanding block, 60- and 220-grit sandpaper
• Damp cloth or wet/dry vac
• Sealer (we used Buddy Rhodes Satin Concrete Sealer)

Before You Begin: Prep and Prime

Assemble your materials. Protect the work surface and surrounding areas with plastic drop cloths. Prime the MDF countertop and let it dry.

Step 1: Mix the Finish

Wearing safety glasses and a face mask, mix Feather Finish with water to a desired consistency, following the package instructions. We mixed ours in a 5-gallon bucket using an electric drill and mixing attachment until it reached the consistency of toothpaste.

Step 2: Coat the Counter

Using a putty knife, spread a thin layer of mixture over the primed MDF. Coat the top and all sides, spreading smoothly. Use a plastic scraper to knock off the texture and further smooth the surface. Let it dry 20 minutes, then smooth the edges with a damp finger. Let it continue to dry.

Step 3: Sand the Surface

Sand the surface using 60-grit sandpaper. Wipe with a damp cloth or clean with a wet/dry vac.

Step 4: Repeat

Repeat Steps 2 and 3 four times. On the 4th sanding, use 220-grit sandpaper.

Step 5: Seal It Up

Apply 5 coats of satin concrete sealer using a clean cloth and following manufacturer's instructions. Let it dry.