Can the torn paper/polyurethane hack be used on kitchen countertops?

Paula Jones
by Paula Jones
I’m sick of my old yellow countertops and wondered about covering them with the torn paper and polyurethane that so many are using on floors. I don’t know if that would be food safe or how well it would hold up to water, heat, sharp knives, etc. what do ya’ll think?

  7 answers
  • M. M.. M. M.. on May 21, 2018

    It won't be a very durable surface for the things you mention. If you're one to use cutting boards, trays, etc. and never work directly on the counter surface, then it might be fine, except around the sink area. But food safe, water resistant and durable it won't be...you might have to yearly apply the poly sealer and that 's not good for anyone to breathe!

  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on May 21, 2018

    are you referring to the paper bag flooring hacks?

  • Carol Marszalek Carol Marszalek on May 21, 2018

    Absolutely! Crumple first, smooth out, glue down. Stain if you want, then do a couple coats of poly. Let dry thoroughly between coats.

  • 17335038 17335038 on May 22, 2018

    Agree with M.M. 'Redoing' countertops and floors with torn paper or bags seems to be a fad right now. However, knowing how well even durable materials intended for use in areas of the home that require frequent cleaning tend not to hold up to daily use, I can say with confidence that these types of finishes will not be food safe or have lasting resiliency.


    My suggestion if you really want to have a go at this kind of project, then try it on a small table top, or some other old piece of furniture first.

    • Paula Jones Paula Jones on May 22, 2018

      Is there anything I could use on top of the paper to protect it, make it durable and food safe other than polyurethane?

  • Carol Marszalek Carol Marszalek on May 22, 2018

    Once down,, with 2-3 coats of poly, should wear well for years! At some future point another coat of poly will renew it, if you still like it.

  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on May 22, 2018

    not completely sure but sis find this one.https://www.hometalk.com/diy/kitchen-dining/kitchen-dining-furniture/d-i-y-brown-paper-bag-countertop-9860981?expand_all_questions=1

  • M. M.. M. M.. on May 27, 2018

    Ye-eess, but it's also the standing water and splashes that can damage your finish, still not food safe, but good luck if you're going for it,