What are cheap ways to do a backsplash and countertop makeover?

www.hometalk.com/categories/makeovers/kitchen/countertops

I have done different versions of DIY countertops and backsplash. Here are my tutorials:

https://bachelorettepadflip.com/2014/01/10/diy-vanity-details/

https://bachelorettepadflip.com/2014/03/03/diy-kitchen-backsplash-tutorial/

If you do a lot of cooking, granite or Corian like slabs is still the best choice for counter top. If you are not into cooking that opens up other materials even butcher block, hardwood like walnut, Formica or similar material. For backsplash it usually needs to be a wipe able material, the only area that gets water is behind the sink, stainless steel sheet or any other metal, if one uses brass or other metal have them with clear polythene coating so that they do not rust/oxidize. Ceramic or glass tiles are excellent choice but are costly. They can be limited to cove and back of stove and sink, glossy paint too will last for some time. Achla from ACHLA Designs

Hello -- for backsplash, porcelain and ceramic are good materials to keep the cost down. Check local tile places, they might have an outlet available too. As for countertops, the new generation of formica looks amazing! Especially if you choose a bullnose or a special edge. I just used the formica in a project and we splurged on the glass backsplash to make it a little extra special (see picture below). If you want real stone, you can find good prices on granite. Best of luck to you! - Amanda M. Amato of AMA Designs & Interiors LLC

Wow! This is great! A definite "DO" for my kitchen! THANKS!

How much did it cost you?

Hi Maria, I painted my countertops, you could likely paint the backsplash too, or do peel and stick on the backsplash. Here's how I painted the countertops, it lasted a good 12 years until I could afford new countertops.

Lightly sand to rough the countertop up.

Go to your paint store, tell them what you are painting, they will pick the proper paint and primer for you, you can even get the primer tinted for a better coverage.

Once you have sanded, clean with TSP, then rinse and dry thoroughly,

Apply your primer coat, let it dry according to the instructions.

Once the primer coat is dry, apply your paint coat, I would apply 2 or 3 as it will be stronger and thicker

Once your coats dry, you can apply a matte clear coat, either by spray or roll on, keep a small container of it under your sink for touch ups, (I never touched up) I had my counters like this for 12 years, until I could afford new ones.

I used a few uncolored glass cutting boards for protection from hot frying pans and pots. It held up very well. And only costs you the prices of the materials.

Good luck!

ps they make lovely tile look and textured peel and stick for backsplashes as well!

People are also going to cement countertops, some really beautiful ones out there,