Turn your countertops into a dazzling, star-studded masterpiece! This step-by-step guide will show you how to create a stunning, deep black countertop with a galaxy-inspired shimmer, using Stone Coat Countertops epoxy, metallic pigments, and glitter accents. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance and a bold, celestial look to your space, this project is easy for DIYers of all skill levels. With careful instructions on mixing, pouring, and curing, you’ll be able to achieve a professional-grade, high-gloss finish that’s out of this world. Ready to bring the beauty of a galaxy into your home? Let’s get started!
How to Mimic the Look of Black Galaxy Granite with Epoxy
other tools & supplies
other tools & supplies
- Mixing Buckets/Cups/Sticks
- Isopropyl Alcohol in a spray bottle
- Torch or Heat Gun
- 220 Grit Sandpaper
**We do not recommend using Ultimate Top Coat on Black Galaxy Countertops. This protective product creates a textured surface that does not show the depth a clear coat allows.
Before you start:
It makes a difference whether you’re pouring over an existing countertop or fabricating your own. Pouring over an existing countertop, be it tile or laminate, have additional preparation steps for maximum adhesion compared to fabricating your own out of MDF. Please visit our corresponding tutorials for optimal results. This recipe will start at the point of surface preparedness.
Step 1: Clean and Prep Surface
Sand and smooth any bumps or rough areas, then clean thoroughly to remove all dust and debris. For new MDF countertops, place them on a level surface and apply two coats of Stone Coat Countertop Black Epoxy Undercoat. Allow the second coat to dry for at least 4 hours. This specially formulated, ammonia-free undercoat bonds perfectly with our Countertop Epoxies and substrate materials for the best results (other products may not achieve the same effect). Once the undercoat is dry, lightly sand with 220-grit if needed and clean off any remaining dust.
Step 2: Pour Epoxy and Glitter Layer
With the undercoat completely dry, mix a batch of Stone Coat Countertop Epoxy (we recommend 3 ounces per square foot). Be sure to mix thoroughly including scraping the sides of your mixing container. Add equal parts Silver and Black Polycolor Glitter to the desired coverage and continue to mix. A little bit goes a long way when it comes to glitter.
Pour your epoxy and glitter mixture into the center of your project and then use your trowel to mix and fold to continue to distribute the glitter. Use the trowel to spread the epoxy towards the edges but do not pull all the way to the edge to drip over at first. Spread epoxy mixture evenly and then use a gloved hand to pull epoxy over the edge and onto the edge surface. Then take the 2” chop brush to evenly chop the surface to remove the trowel lines.
Use a propane torch 2” from the surface to remove air bubbles in a sweeping motion. Let the project sit for a minute or two, and then repeat the process three times to remove all bubbles. If you are pouring in a colder environment you may need to check for bubbles a few more times and repeat torching.
Step 3: Final Top Coat
*Note: The Glitter Epoxy layer must cure for 16-24 hours before the top coat is poured. We recommend it be slightly tacky to the touch when the top coat is applied. If you allow it to set for more than 24 hours, you will need to lightly scuff the surface with 220-grit sandpaper for improved adhesion.
For Black Galaxy Countertops, you will need to pour a topcoat, which is an additional pour of Stone Coat Countertop Epoxy at 3 ounces per square foot. We do not recommend our Ultimate Top Coat Matte or Gloss product. In order to see the glitter effect you will need the additional top coat of Countertop Epoxy. Ultimate Top Coat leaves a slight texture which obscures the galaxy effect.
Once thoroughly mixed, pour the epoxy mixture into the center of your project and spread with a trowel, and then pull over the edges with a gloved hand. Using another chop brush, chop the surface to break trowel lines. Wait a few minutes and then remove bubbles with the torch. Repeat at least 3 times.
DIY Black Galaxy Granite countertops with epoxy can be an affordable and easy alternative to purchasing the real deal. Epoxy's durability and versatility make it ideal for countertop applications, and the beautiful, unique look of black granite will add an elegant touch to any kitchen or bathroom. By following our step-by-step guide, even beginner DIYers can create this high-end look on a budget!
WHAT SURFACE ARE YOU POURING ONTO?
Follow the tutorial below that applies to your project:
HOW TO APPLY EPOXY OVER MDF
Learn more
HOW TO APPLY EPOXY OVER TILE
Learn more
HOW TO APPLY EPOXY OVER LAMINATE
Learn moreFAQs About Granite & Granite Alternatives
We’ve helped people epoxy numerous things, from live-edge epoxy tables with solid wood to shower walls. In that time, we’ve also helped people decide between epoxy and natural stone.
So, we’ve answered a lot of questions about black galaxy granite! Here are the few we’ve heard the most:
- Is black galaxy granite expensive? Yes. Next to marble and other exotic stones, it’s among the most expensive options out there. Some granites cost more than most marbles!
- Does real black granite need to be sealed? Yes, it does. Because granite isn’t as porous as other stone, it doesn’t need the same kind of sealer or as much of it. But most people recommend sealing it every few years.
- Are real black granite countertops hard to keep clean? No. However, they should be cleaned shortly after cooking so that food residue doesn’t affect the minerals. Not only should you avoid letting citrus sit on the surface, you should also avoid using citrus-based cleaners. (Even Clorox has citric acid, so don’t use Clorox on your granite!)
- Should kitchen floors be darker than countertops? If you’re worried about a design faux pas when working with black galaxy granite, here are some tips. First, dark floors look great with dark countertops! Second, hardwood and light floors look great, too. Either way, your interior will pop if you allow for a bit of contrast.
- Are epoxy countertops cheaper than granite? Epoxy is much cheaper than granite. Plus, it doesn’t require professional installation.
- How much does it cost to do epoxy countertops? Some of our customers have created their own amazing countertops, floors, and more for just a couple hundred dollars. Our Black Galaxy Granite kits start well below $100.
- Does epoxy make a good countertop? Yes! It can look like galaxy granite, Carrara marble, fractured jade, soapstone, and more. It’s stain-resistant, heat-resistant, impact-resistant, and moisture-resistant.