Replacing a kitchen countertop need not be an expensive endeavour, it has been suggested. Writing for examiner.com, Diane DiPiero noted faux finishing could give work surfaces the look of a stone surface at a reduced cost. Countertop Transfauxmations, as it has been dubbed by its inventor Michaela Harbert, involves painting a surface with products from any local store to achieve a revitalising finish. Homeowners using the technique must apply a bond coat before they paint the area and then use a sealant. According to Ms DiPiero, faux-painted surfaces are fool-proof, with any mistakes made during the process being easily retouched once it has dried.People were also advised to ensure that the sealant used is of the appropriate type so that the completed project is food-safe.Those looking for a granite countertop around their kitchen sink may have been reassured by examiner.com writer Nancy Baldwins comments that the material is particularly popular.