Step 1: Prepare the surface.
Glue down any portions of laminate that might have come loose from the substrate. Clean the surface with TSP (trisodium phosphate) cleaner, following the manufacturer’s directions.

Step 2: Protect other surfaces.
Cover what you don’t want to paint with low-tack painter’s tape and drop cloths.

Step 3: Select primer.
Choose a quality bonding primer. Have the store tint the primer to suit the color of the base coat to come.

Step 4: Roll on primer.
Use a foam roller to apply the primer. Let dry according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Step 5: Roll on the base coat.
Use a foam roller to apply the base coat of color; let dry.

Step 6: Add a design.
Draw your design on the countertop. Protect areas you don’t want to paint with low-tack painter’s tape, and then use a foam roller or a brush to apply the contrasting color or colors for the design. You can also use stencils or stamps, or create a design freehand. (For lettering, such as the “his” and “hers” in this bathroom, use a stencil.) Let dry and remove the tape.

Step 7: Apply clear sealer.
Protect your handiwork with three or four coats of clear water-based polyurethane, letting each coat dry before applying another.