Can traditional/Formica countertops be painted or resurfaced ?

Yes! You can buy kits made by manufacturers like Giani, Daich and Rustoleum for refinishing your countertop to look like (faux) granite. Here's a a DIY Network how-to: http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/kitchen/how-to-paint-laminate-kitchen-countertops

For an even quicker option you can also apply peel-and-stick film to your existing counters, like this black granite example: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006KC4YPY/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_x_SXEJzbGP34TCH or this white marble option: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E9F1NWK/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_x_6a6JzbYQXTW74 They get pretty good ratings from customers, several of whom have posted before-and-after pictures.

yes. You can buy kits at the big box stores like hom depot or there are several great DIY videos on YouTube and Pinterest

home depot has kit that lets you refinish them to look like stone. Or you can do granite tiles.

Yes, yes yes! Easy, fun and comes out amazing! Sand, prime, paint ( I used a nutrul color like tan painted it than used an old rag and blabbed it with 2 more colors and add some whiteat different times to get a lighter shade) go to hobby lobby get the self leveling sealer use couponds, 👏 I did large kitchen counter, bar top and bathroom all for about $100.00

Yes, there are rustoleum and other brand kits for this at Home Depot.

I have done dozens of tops using XIM mat spray primer/sealer (it is hard to find, but well worth the hassle. Just "dust" the existing surface. This is the secret. It will will dry almost instantly. Be sure to protect all other surfaces.

Topcoat with an appliance spray. It lasts years.

I painted a mirrored table black and used a feather to create a faux marble surface. It started pealing at about 15 years.

Thanks Beth and Cindy :)

I actually want to make my countertops orange, but I can go to the links you sent and see what all my options are!