DIY Black Marble Epoxy Countertops
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When I started my laundry room renovation, I knew that I wanted a countertop for folding laundry. I started researching different options for countertop material, and quickly realized my budget was going to limit my options. My dream countertop for the space was black marble buuuuuuut that was not in the budget!
Fortunately, you can achieve the same stunning look using epoxy! In this blog post, I’ll take you through the steps I took to create black marble countertops for a fraction of the price. If you’re interested in seeing the before and after photos from my laundry room transformation, you can check it out here!
Materials Needed
- Plywood or existing countertops (I bought this countertop!)
- Tabletop Epoxy
- Black Latex Paint
- White Paint Pens (ColorShot is the only paint pen I liked after trying a few)
- Heat Gun
- Plastic drop cloths
- Tack Cloths
- Mixing containers with measuring marks
- Mixing Container (small bucket)
- Mixing sticks
- High Density Foam Roller
- Epoxy Application Spreaders
- Protective gloves
- Dust Mask or Respirator
1. Prep the Countertop Base
First, clear the countertop surface and remove any items or appliances. You should clean the countertops thoroughly, ensuring there is no dirt, grease or residue left behind. You can apply epoxy over a variety of different materials, such as laminate, plywood, granite or other stone countertops. I didn’t have countertops to start in the laundry room so I went to Home Depot and bought a 10 foot laminate countertop as my base!
2. Paint the Base Coat
Next, I used a flat black latex paint to paint over the entire countertop. I applied two coats with a foam roller so that the countertop was solid black.
3. Add the Veining Details
After the base coat has dried, it’s time to add the veining! There are different ways you can achieve this step to get your desired look. I chose to use white paint pens to draw the veins on. I felt like I had the most control over the veining thickness and movement using the pens, but you can absolutely use a fine tip paintbrush with white paint as well. This was definitely the most time consuming step, but worth it I promise!
Pro tip: Pull up an image of marble that you wish to replicate the veining patterns on your computer or electronic device. Reference the direction, size and pattern of the veins in your inspiration image throughout the process!
4. Prep for Epoxy
Protect the surrounding areas by covering them with plastic drop cloths. Wipe down your countertop with a tack cloth before pouring the epoxy to keep out any dust and/or hair. It is EXTREMELY important to wear the proper protective gear when working with epoxy. Wear protective gloves, and a dust mask to ensure your safety, and do not let epoxy touch your skin. Make sure to read and follow the instructions provided by the epoxy resin manufacturer. Epoxy kits can have different ratio requirements so it is important to follow the directions!
5. Tabletop Epoxy Pour
Once you’re ready to go and wearing your protective gear, pour the recommended amount of epoxy into a mixing container. It is extremely important to make sure you have the ratio correct for part A and part B of the epoxy. If you don’t there’s a good chance the epoxy will get sticky and will never cure. Additionally, it’s important to make sure the epoxy is completely mixed. Don’t mix too quickly to avoid creating air bubbles in the mixture.
Once the epoxy is mixed, it’s time to pour! Pour the epoxy mixture onto the countertop surface, starting at one corner and working your way across the entire area. I used a plastic spreader to apply the epoxy evenly over the surface, but a high density foam roller is a great method as well. Epoxy is self-leveling, but make sure every inch of the countertops is covered with epoxy for it to work.
Next, use a heat gun or propane torch to remove any air bubbles that may have formed in the epoxy. I personally prefer to use a heat gun, though I have used both during different epoxy projects. Move the heat gun gently and quickly over the surface, keeping it at a safe distance to avoid scorching the epoxy.
Last, allow the epoxy to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This process may take several days, so ensure the countertop is undisturbed during this time (no dirt, touching it, or exposure to the elements. Pay attention to the temperature of the space your pour in. Because I live somewhere with four seasons, if I am using epoxy in the fall, winter or spring, I pour inside my house to ensure the epoxy cures correctly.
And VOILA! You have black marble countertops! Remember to take proper safety precautions and carefully follow the instructions provided by the epoxy manufacturer. Enjoy your beautiful new countertops and the moody bougie vibes they bring to your space!
