20 DIY Countertops Cheap [Within Budget]

Are you tired of your outdated countertops but daunted by the cost of replacements? I completely understand the struggle.

Transforming your kitchen or bathroom doesn’t have to break the bank. In this article, I’ll share some exciting DIY solutions for creating beautiful countertops on a budget. 

Let’s dive into it!

DIY Countertops Cheap

Countertops are flat surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms where people prepare food, cook, or place items. 

They come in various materials like granite, marble, laminate, and quartz, each offering different looks and durability. 

A good countertop should be easy to clean and strong enough to handle daily use. Choosing the right countertop can enhance the overall appearance of your space while making cooking and other tasks more enjoyable. 

Whether you prefer a classic or modern style, there’s a countertop option to suit everyone’s needs.

1. Butcher Block Countertop

You can achieve a rustic yet modern look by using a butcher block for your countertops. A butcher block is made from thick strips of wood glued together, creating a solid surface.

You can purchase pre-made sections at hardware stores or piece together your own using wood planks.

After sanding the surface smooth, apply a food-safe sealant to protect the wood.

This project is perfect for those who love a bit of woodworking and want to add warmth and character to their kitchen. It’s budget-friendly compared to other countertop options.

2. Concrete Overlay

Concrete overlays are a fantastic way to give your countertops a sleek, industrial look without the hefty price tag of solid concrete.

You can apply a thin layer of concrete over your existing countertops, using a special concrete mix designed for overlays.

This approach allows you to customize the finish and texture, from smooth and polished to rough and rustic.

Seal the concrete with a durable, food-safe sealant to ensure longevity. This project is relatively straightforward and can be completed over a weekend.

3. Painted Laminate

Revamp your old laminate countertops with a fresh coat of paint. First, sand the surface lightly to remove the gloss and create a surface for the paint to adhere to.

Use a primer designed for laminate, then apply a durable countertop paint in the color of your choice. For extra durability, add a clear, food-safe topcoat.

This budget-friendly option is perfect for giving your kitchen a quick and stylish update without the need for a complete remodel.

4. Epoxy Resin Coating

Transform your countertops with a glossy, high-end finish using epoxy resin. Epoxy kits are available in various colors and finishes, allowing you to create a custom look.

The process involves mixing the resin, applying it to the countertop, and allowing it to cure. The result is a smooth, durable, and water-resistant surface.

Epoxy resin can mimic the look of more expensive materials like marble or granite, making it a cost-effective alternative for a luxurious kitchen makeover.

5. Tile Countertop

Ceramic or porcelain tiles are a versatile and affordable option for DIY countertops. You can choose from a wide range of colors, patterns, and sizes to create a unique design.

The process involves measuring and cutting the tiles to fit, applying adhesive, and grouting the spaces between tiles.

Tile countertops are easy to clean and maintain, and you can even add decorative elements like mosaic tiles for a personalized touch.

This project is ideal if you enjoy hands-on DIY work and want a durable, stylish countertop.

6. Contact Paper Overlay

For a quick and inexpensive countertop makeover, consider using contact paper.

Available in various designs, including marble, granite, and wood grain, contact paper can give your countertops a fresh look without breaking the bank.

Simply measure and cut the paper to fit, peel off the backing, and carefully apply it to the countertop surface. Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles for a seamless finish.

While contact paper is not as durable as other options, it’s a great temporary solution for renters or those looking for a quick update.

7. Plywood Countertop

Plywood is an affordable and versatile material that can be used to create stylish countertops.

Choose high-quality plywood and cut it to fit your countertop dimensions.

Sand the edges and surface smooth, then stain or paint it to match your kitchen decor. Seal the plywood with a durable, food-safe finish to protect it from moisture and wear.

Plywood countertops offer a modern, minimalist look and are perfect for DIY enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly option.

8. Recycled Glass Countertop

Create an eco-friendly and visually stunning countertop using recycled glass.

You can purchase recycled glass countertop kits or make your own by mixing crushed glass with a clear epoxy resin.

Pour the mixture over your existing countertops and allow it to cure. The result is a durable, unique surface that sparkles and catches the light.

This project is perfect for those who love sustainability and want to incorporate recycled materials into their home design.

9. Stainless Steel Overlay

Achieve a sleek, modern look with a stainless steel countertop overlay. Stainless steel sheets can be purchased and cut to fit your existing countertops.

Secure the sheets with adhesive and ensure the edges are smooth and safe.

Stainless steel is durable, easy to clean, and adds a professional kitchen vibe to your space.

While the initial cost of stainless steel can be higher than other materials, it’s a long-lasting and low-maintenance option that’s worth the investment.

10. Wooden Pallet Countertop

Repurpose wooden pallets into a rustic and charming countertop. Dismantle the pallets and sand the wood pieces smooth.

Arrange the wood planks on your countertop base, securing them with adhesive and finishing nails.

Sand the entire surface again and apply a stain or paint to achieve your desired look. Finish with a food-safe sealant to protect the wood.

This project is cost-effective and perfect for those who love upcycling and creating a cozy, farmhouse-inspired kitchen.

11. Faux Granite Finish

Give your countertops a luxurious look with a faux granite finish. You can achieve this effect using a countertop paint kit designed to mimic the appearance of granite.

These kits typically include multiple colors of paint and a sponge or brush for application.

Follow the instructions to create a realistic granite pattern, then seal the surface with a clear, food-safe topcoat.

This budget-friendly option allows you to enjoy the elegance of granite without the high cost.

12. Laminate Sheets

Update your countertops with new laminate sheets. Laminate is an affordable and durable option available in a wide range of colors and patterns.

Measure your countertops and cut the laminate sheets to fit. Use contact cement to adhere the laminate to the surface, and trim any excess material.

Laminate sheets provide a smooth, easy-to-clean surface and can quickly refresh the look of your kitchen without a major investment.

13. Chalkboard Paint Countertop

Add a fun and functional element to your kitchen with a chalkboard paint countertop.

Chalkboard paint can be applied directly to your existing countertops, creating a writable surface perfect for jotting down notes, recipes, or grocery lists.

Start by sanding and priming the surface, then apply several coats of chalkboard paint, allowing each coat to dry completely. Finish with a clear, food-safe sealant to protect the surface.

This creative and inexpensive option is great for families and those who love a bit of whimsy in their kitchen.

14. Copper Sheet Overlay

Copper sheets can give your countertops a warm, rustic look. Purchase copper sheets and cut them to fit your countertops.

Secure the sheets with adhesive, making sure the edges are smooth and safe.

Over time, copper develops a natural patina that adds character and depth to the surface. If you prefer to maintain the original shine, regularly polish the copper.

This DIY project is perfect for those who appreciate the unique beauty of natural materials and want to add a touch of elegance to their kitchen.

15. Bamboo Countertop

Bamboo is an eco-friendly and stylish option for DIY countertops. You can purchase bamboo countertop panels or create your own using bamboo flooring planks.

Cut the bamboo to fit your countertops and secure it with adhesive.

Sand the surface smooth and apply a food-safe sealant to protect it. Bamboo countertops are durable, easy to clean, and add a natural, organic feel to your kitchen.

This project is ideal for those who value sustainability and want a modern, yet earthy kitchen design.

16. Reclaimed Wood Countertop

Use reclaimed wood to create a unique and environmentally friendly countertop. Source reclaimed wood from old buildings, barns, or pallets.

Clean and sand the wood pieces, then arrange them on your countertop base. Secure the wood with adhesive and finishing nails, then sand the surface smooth.

Apply a stain or paint to achieve your desired look, and finish with a food-safe sealant.

Reclaimed wood countertops add character and history to your kitchen, making each piece one-of-a-kind.

17. Mosaic Tile Countertop

Create a colorful and artistic countertop with mosaic tiles. You can use a variety of small tiles, glass pieces, or even broken ceramics to design a unique mosaic pattern.

Arrange the tiles on your countertop surface and secure them with adhesive.

Fill the spaces between the tiles with grout, then seal the surface with a clear, food-safe sealant.

Mosaic tile countertops are a great way to express your creativity and add a personalized touch to your kitchen decor.

18. Cork Countertop

Cork is a sustainable and versatile material that can be used for countertops. Purchase cork tiles or sheets and cut them to fit your countertop dimensions.

Secure the cork with adhesive and ensure the edges are smooth. Cork is naturally resistant to mold and mildew, making it a practical choice for kitchens.

It also adds a warm, natural texture to your space. Seal the cork with a food-safe finish to protect it from moisture and wear.

19. Formica Countertop

Formica is a classic and affordable material for countertops. Available in a wide range of colors and patterns,

Formica sheets can be cut to fit your countertops and adhered with contact cement. Trim any excess material and smooth the edges for a clean finish.

Formica is durable, easy to clean, and offers a retro vibe that’s perfect for mid-century modern or vintage-inspired kitchens. This DIY project is budget-friendly and can be completed in a day.

20. Faux Marble Contact Paper

For a quick and stylish update, use faux marble contact paper on your countertops.

Available in a variety of marble patterns, contact paper can give your kitchen a high-end look without the high cost.

Measure and cut the contact paper to fit your countertops, then peel off the backing and carefully apply it to the surface. Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles for a seamless finish.

This temporary solution is perfect for renters or anyone looking for an easy, budget-friendly makeover.