HGTV Parisian Kitchen Make-Over with Faux Finishes

This was my segment on HGTV's "Look What I Did!" that aired on June 15th, 2007. I transformed my entire kitchen with just paint! Projects include: Formica counter tops to look like granite, ceramic tiles back-splash to look like tumbled stone and dichroic glass, faux stained glass window, murals on walls and right on cabinetry and a break away wall revealing a faux brick wall.

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• faux
• finish
• kitchen
• makeover
• jennifer
• benjamin
• HGTV
• counter
• paint
• decorating
• projects
• DIY

[Anglofilly]

I forgot to ask. Did you use oil-based paint on the formica?

[JenBenjamin]

I used water based acrylics in the 2oz bottles; craft paints. The instructions are on my website. :O)

[daytonscott]

I really like what you did with your kitchen! I need to do something with my kitchen and my counter-tops are attrocious. I absolutely ADORE what you did, but I am afraid of ruining my countertops as this is unchartered territory for me.

Where did you purchase the metallic dust? Where did you learn to create such a finish??? Is there a video or book that you used that I can purchase somewhere?

Thanks, Scott

[JenBenjamin]

I have been a scenic artist (faux finishes, theming out theme parks, restaurants, etc) for years. Painting on all kinds of substrates are "industry secrets" - no secrets anymore. The key to painting is the prep work. Sand (to give "tooth", clean. and Prime well... after painting... seal and let cure!!!!) Remember... it's just paint... you can't really "destroy" anything... if you don't like it just start over and paint over it! :O)  Go for it!

[sweetjune73]

you did a wonderful job!!!!!!!!!!!! You make it look so simple to do. i have a question... did u prime your counters before you painted them??

[JenBenjamin]

Thanks! YES! Sand and Prime the countertops... That's KEY!!! :O) Good Luck!

[srambus]

OMG! Your are the Martha Stewart of decorating!!!!!!1 You should be doing this for a living!

[ArgyleDark]

I love this too, and I am so going to do it in our new house! Our kitchen looks about like your before pics and is so boring. I think the foil she has used here was rainbow foil done sideways from jones tones. I think you can get it at walmart. I love the rainbow tiles the best =) Now if only I could figure out what sort of metalic dust you used for the countertops! lol

[wilderness1star]

@JenBenjamin Love this and I need your web address,Kindest Regards, Patty

[chibibuddy]

Your segment is great!! I just have one question. Where do you buy the foil adhesive? What brand? Appreciate the info!

[misscluckmaster]

Can you do the same technique you used on your tile on the wall? What is your website? I am redoing my bathroom and need some sugestions!

[teufelstaub]

There are tons of great ideas on these HGTV shows, but the camera work/ editing is maddening! There never is enough time to actually gaze at the subject .

[haiscia76]

bellissimaaaaaaaa...bravaaaaa.­..

[lala2254]

My WORD you are SOOOOOO talented and you make it look so easy! I wish you were my best friend and lived next door lol!! You are remarkable!

[terriistuesdayschild]

Greetings,

I like your creative ideas and the guts to do it!

That's great!

Terri:)

[thughlett]

Hi Jen! I just saw your video it is amazing!

I can't find your website. I would love to do this in my kitchen. I've been wanting granite countertops but I can't spend the money. I would love to see exactly how you did your kitchen. thanks

[goalgetter0123]

good for you! i am in awe for your creativity. I wish i could be more like that.

[ondbond]

lady .. u rock :)