How to Prepare for Painting Over Granite Paint

You can bring the look of the rugged outdoors inside your home with granite paint. This specialty paint adds character by giving more color depth to surfaces; the stone crystals that are provided and mixed into the paint also allow the paint to glisten in the sunlight. The look will emulate natural stone surfaces, providing a great effect for creative individuals who want a signature look in their homes and also those who like the look of natural granite without the high price associated with the actual stone. Granite paint does require special steps in order to get the desired look, but the application is easy with the proper knowledge and preparation. Rather than hiring someone else to transform your rooms, home, or office space into something trendier, follow the steps below to do it yourself.

Step 1 - Do the Initial Planning

Imagine how you want your finished product to look like: perhaps there is a certain color tone you desire to ensure a more noticeable transformation of previously granite painted furniture. Picture in your mind the end result you want to achieve; consider if there’s a certain mood you want to attain; e.g. a more artistic and beautiful sight each time you climb up your staircase, or a more peaceful and quiet sensation when you set your eyes on your bedroom walls.

Step 2 - Understand the Nature of Granite Paint

When granite paint is originally applied to a surface, the application requires the addition of crystals to the base paint. This accounts for the unique appearance of granite paint; it also makes granite paint especially hard to remove. Once you are of the opinion that granite paint design is no longer satisfactory or outdated, you will need to decide whether removal of the paint or repainting it is the most beneficial. Granite paint is very detailed, which makes it both easy and hard to cover whenever one decides to alter or get rid of it. Minor alterations may leave some details and visible marks; thus, major makeovers are usually advised.

Step 3 - Choose the Paint of Your Choice

First decide on what base paint you want to use: the most common types are latex paint and oil-based paint. You may use your practice boards or tiles to try these, and so that you see actual samples of both types. Then choose what particular paint finish you think best suits your taste. The most common is a flat finish, which is more commonly used to hide imperfections. If you want to be more stylish, try the eggshell finish, or go for the satin finish if you want one that's easy to clean.

Step 4 - Decide on the Design You Want

You may start by applying one solid color of your choice; then use a sponge, rag, or cloth to explore different effects and eventually create your own pattern. The decision on how you want your project done really depends on your own taste, the subject you’re painting on, and the theme you have in mind. Use your granite test boards and tiles for trial painting and experimentation; you can then compare this with your imagined output. It will also be helpful to know how to remove the paint in case of errors; always be prepared with paint removers or you will have to apply another layer of coating to cover.

Step 5 - Ensure Everything is Considered

Make sure you now have a clear idea of how you want your furniture, staircases, walls, and countertops to look. Schedule a free day to work on this project. Set out the additional materials you’ll need such as an extension ladder, paint scraper, sandpaper, paint guide, roller tray and grid, brush comb. During the start of the project, don't forget to wear comfortable clothes and do some stretching first.

Don’t be disheartened by thinking you’re not creative enough, the key here is to try and explore the many possibilities. Release your artistic side: it will be nice to try something new once in a while and to finally get that new look for your house, office, and the furniture inside.