I made new countertops for my kitchen using a butcher block slab I bought from Ikea. This was a fairly easy and inexpensive remodel and a big upgrade from the old formica that came with the house. I hope you find some inspiration to do your own.

Check out the video here (or above) for a more detailed tutorial

Step 1: Tools and Materials

Tools and materials I used to make this project (affiliate)

6' Ikea Butcher Block Slab - solid wood
Circular Saw
Orbital Sander
Wood Conditioner
Wood Stain
Wood Sealer/Finish
Silicone Caulk
Level (and shims)

Step 2: Cut the Butcher Block to Size

I started the project by measuring for my cuts. I then secured a straight edge guide to run my circular saw along and made my cuts. I also changed out my standard circular saw blade for a fine toothed blade for a super nice, clean cut. The large block was held up off the ground and supported by 2x4's.

Step 3: Sand the Slabs

I next worked my way to to 320 grit and sanded the slabs smooth with my orbital sander.

Step 4: Stain

Before I stain wood, I use a wood conditioner. This helps to even out the color and create a much more even stain coat. As for the stain, I chose walnut for this project. The longer you leave it on, the darker your stain will be.

Step 5: Seal and Finish

I put a lot of time into researching sealers and finishes for these counters because I really wanted to protect them well. To protect these countertops (especially against water and moisture), I chose to seal them with several applications of Waterlox.

I started by sealing the bottoms and sides with two coats of the Waterlox Original, letting them dry for 24 hours in between coats. I started by using a paint pad but ultimately ditched that and just used a good quality paint brush for the tops.

The tops needed more protection than the bottom. I started this step by applying two coats of Waterlox Original, with 24 hours of drying in between. I also sanded each coat before applying the next with a piece of super fine steel wool.

I wanted the countertops to have more of a matte finish, so I used a mixture of 50/50 Waterlox Original and Waterlox Satin Finish for the last two coats of sealing - for a total of 4 coats.

Step 6: Installation

I removed the old formica tops and slid the new ones in place. I used shims to make the tops completely level.

To secure them, Ikea conveniently provided some angle bracket hardware and screws. I pre-drilled the holes and then screwed one side to the cabinet base and then one side to the countertop.

To make sure I didn't cut too deep, I used painters tape to make a depth guide on my drill bit.

Step 7: Caulk the Edges

The last step to completing the countertops was to caulk the edges. We'd been wanting to add a backsplash so I added the tile backsplash before finishing with caulking the seams. And with that, the countertops were complete!

Step 8: Enjoy Your New Countertops!

Such an improvement! For more detailed instructions on the countertops, be sure and watch the video. I hope this inspires you and I'd love to see pics of your countertops if you decide to make your own!

Be sure and check out my YouTube channel for more builds. You can also find me on Instagram @makergray