23 DIY Cheap Countertop Ideas
Updating your countertops can completely transform the space, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune!
In this post, we’ll explore 23 DIY cheap countertop ideas that are both budget-friendly and stylish.
Let’s get in!
DIY Cheap Countertop Ideas

1. Butcher Block Countertops
Butcher block countertops are a fantastic choice for homeowners seeking warmth and charm without breaking the bank.
Imagine stepping into your kitchen to be greeted by beautiful wooden surfaces that exude rustic elegance.
You can easily buy butcher block slabs ready to install, or for the more adventurous, make them yourself.
Start with hardwood planks—maple, oak, or cherry are popular choices—and cut them to fit your space.

2. Laminate Countertop Makeover
Transforming your kitchen or bathroom with a DIY laminate countertop makeover is both affordable and straightforward.
If you’re tired of the outdated look, consider using countertop paint or peel-and-stick vinyl for a fresh, modern appearance without breaking the bank.
Countertop paint provides a robust, durable finish that mimics expensive surfaces like granite or marble.
It’s straightforward to apply with a brush or roller, making it accessible even for DIY novices.

3. Painted Plywood Countertops
Transform your kitchen with the striking simplicity of painted plywood countertops.
This cost-effective method allows you to redefine your cooking space without breaking the bank. Start by carefully cutting plywood to your desired size.
Sand the surfaces to achieve a smooth finish, then choose a paint or stain that complements your kitchen decor.
This isn’t just about looks—sealing the plywood with polyurethane ensures durability, protecting it from moisture and wear. A polished, hard-wearing countertop that can stand the test of time.

4. Concrete Overlay
Concrete overlays are revolutionizing home renovations, making the chic, industrial look of concrete countertops accessible to everyone.
Imagine transforming your kitchen or bathroom with just a thin layer of concrete applied directly over existing surfaces.
This method eliminates the heavy lifting and high costs associated with solid concrete slabs, giving you a durable and stylish finish without breaking the bank.

5. Peel-and-Stick Vinyl Countertops
Transforming your kitchen doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated, and peel-and-stick vinyl countertops prove just that.
These innovative solutions mimic the luxurious appeal of materials like marble, wood, or stone without the hefty price tag.
Installation is a breeze, demanding only basic tools, making it a perfect weekend project.
Simply measure your existing countertops, cut the vinyl to size, and adhere it directly onto the surface for an instant facelift.

6. Tile Countertops
Tile countertops are a budget-friendly option that combines practicality with creativity.
Using ceramic or porcelain tiles, homeowners can achieve a sleek and durable finish without the hefty price tag of granite or marble.
Start by securing a sturdy plywood or cement board, which acts as the foundation.
Carefully place each tile, considering design and pattern, and leave even spaces between for grout.

7. Chalk Paint Countertops
When it comes to transforming your kitchen on a budget, chalk paint countertops are a game-changer.
This low-cost, DIY method lets you rejuvenate tired surfaces like laminate, wood, or tile with minimal effort.
First, ensure the surface is clean and smooth, then apply your chosen chalk paint color. The magic lies in its versatility and ease of use—no priming needed.
Once the paint is dry, sealing it with a wax or polyurethane topcoat is essential to enhance durability and maintain its fresh look.

8. Wood Plank Countertops
Wood plank countertops are a fantastic choice for budget-conscious renovators seeking both style and sustainability.
Using reclaimed wood not only saves money but also adds a unique character to your kitchen space.
The process begins by selecting quality wood planks, which can often be sourced from salvage yards or old barns.
Once you’ve gathered your materials, the planks are glued and clamped tightly together to form a slab.

9. Epoxy Resin Countertops
Transforming your countertops with epoxy resin is an ingenious and economical way to refresh your kitchen or bathroom space.
This process involves applying a layer of epoxy resin over your existing countertops, providing them with a fresh, glossy finish that mimics the luxurious appearance of marble or granite without breaking the bank.
Not only is this method budget-friendly, but it’s also customizable. You can choose different colors and styles, adding a unique flair to your countertops with ease.

10. Penny Countertops
Transforming your kitchen space doesn’t have to break the bank, and penny countertops are a prime example of that.
Imagine the simple elegance and rich texture of countless pennies meticulously arranged atop your countertops.
You start by gluing each penny in a design that speaks to your style—maybe concentric circles or geometric patterns.
Once your mosaic masterpiece is complete, a layer of clear epoxy resin locks in the coins, creating a seamless, shiny finish that’s both stunning and practical.

11. Recycled Glass Countertops
Enter recycled glass countertops — a sustainable and economical choice for your home.
These unique surfaces bring a touch of flair by incorporating shards of glass into a concrete or epoxy base.
The process is straightforward: select an array of vibrant, discarded glass, and strategically place the pieces within your chosen base.
As the materials bond, the result is a dazzling expanse that reflects light and captures attention.

12. Contact Paper Countertops
Transforming your kitchen countertops has never been easier or more affordable than with contact paper.
Imagine replacing those tired old surfaces with a vibrant new look without the hassle of a major renovation.
Contact paper, available in a variety of exciting designs such as marble or wood grain, provides this possibility.
It’s temporary, meaning if it starts to wear or if you crave a new design, you can effortlessly remove and replace it.

13. Painted Laminate Countertops
Transforming your outdated laminate countertops into a stunning focal point can be as simple as a paint job. Start by sanding down the surface to ensure the paint adheres properly.
Apply a primer to create a smooth base, then use a foam roller to evenly coat the counter with durable enamel or specialty countertop paint.
This approach not only saves you money compared to a full replacement but also allows you to personalize the color and finish to your liking.

14. Faux Marble Countertops
Transforming your kitchen with the elegance of marble no longer requires a hefty investment, thanks to the ingenious faux marble countertop technique.
Start by painting your countertops with a clean base of white paint, instantly brightening the space.
Then, unleash your inner artist by using fine brushes to skillfully add delicate veining with gray or black paint, closely mimicking natural stone patterns.
The pièce de résistance is a layer of high-gloss epoxy resin or polyurethane, sealing your work with a lustrous finish.

15. Recycled Paper Countertops
Transforming recycled paper into stunning countertops is an innovative, sustainable solution that’s gaining popularity.
Picture this: old newspapers and office scraps turned into a durable, stylish kitchen surface.
This process involves mixing the paper with a binding agent, typically a resin, creating a solid slab that’s both lightweight and remarkably resilient.
Not only are these countertops environmentally friendly, but they also add a unique aesthetic charm to any space, with a naturally variegated texture and finish.

16. Pallet Wood Countertops
Transforming reclaimed pallet wood into stunning countertops isn’t just a thrifty project, it’s a creative revolution in home design. Start by disassembling the pallets, and carefully pulling apart each wooden slat.
Sand down the pieces to reveal their natural beauty, and then strategically glue them together to craft a solid, unified surface.
To enhance durability and safety, apply a food-safe sealer, providing a protective finish while embracing the wood’s rustic charm.

17. Stainless Steel Countertops
Imagine transforming your kitchen into a professional-grade space with the DIY charm of stainless steel countertops.
This material is not only durable but incredibly easy to clean—an ideal choice for those who want both style and functionality.
The process is straightforward: secure thin sheets of stainless steel over a plywood base to instantly achieve an industrial aesthetic that’s both modern and timeless.

18. Cork Countertops
Transforming your kitchen or bathroom doesn’t have to break the bank, thanks to the innovative use of cork for countertops.
Imagine this – cork, a renewable resource praised for its resilience and warmth, suddenly becoming the centerpiece of your culinary space.
Start by choosing either cork flooring tiles or sheets, then securely bond them to a sturdy plywood base. The final step involves sealing the cork with a robust polyurethane finish.

19. Poured Concrete Countertops
Imagine transforming your kitchen with a sleek, modern look without breaking the bank.
Poured concrete countertops offer an incredibly affordable option for do-it-yourself enthusiasts.
The process involves creating a mold to your desired size and shape, and then pouring a thin layer of concrete over it. Remarkably durable, these countertops can withstand heat and everyday wear.

20. Glass Mosaic Countertops
Transforming your kitchen or bathroom with glass mosaic countertops is an adventure in color and creativity.
These pint-sized tiles give you the freedom to craft a design that truly reflects your style.
Sold in sheets or individually, you can lay them in intricate patterns, making every countertop a unique masterpiece.
The installation is straightforward—just adhere the tiles to the surface and apply grout for a smooth, durable finish.

21. Resin-Coated Countertops
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to revamp your kitchen or bathroom, resin-coated countertops are the perfect solution.
Picture this: you start with an existing surface—maybe wood, tile, or laminate—and then carefully apply a layer of glossy resin.
It’s like giving your counters an elegant makeover without breaking the bank.
The real magic happens with the pigments; mix them into the resin to craft bespoke colors, maybe a sleek metallic sheen or a sophisticated marble effect.

22. Vinyl Flooring Countertops
Transforming countertops with vinyl flooring is a game-changer for those on a tight budget.
Imagine mimicking the elegance of wood or stone without the hefty price tag. Vinyl offers such versatility—it’s not only affordable but also remarkably easy to maintain.
Just adhere vinyl planks or tiles to a sturdy plywood base, ensuring a seamless fit. Seal the edges to protect against moisture, making it perfect for busy kitchens or bathrooms.

23. Paper Bag Countertops
This budget-friendly DIY project is taking creative homeowners by storm.
By tearing the paper bags into pieces, carefully gluing them onto your countertop surface, and sealing everything with a clear polyurethane coat, you’ll achieve a stunning, leather-like finish.
It’s not just about saving money but also about giving your space a unique and textured aesthetic.
This crafty solution offers depth and character to any kitchen, breathing new life into old countertops.
