How to Apply Microcement on a Countertop – A Simple Way to Achieve a Rustic, Timeless Look

There’s something deeply satisfying about transforming a surface with your own hands. Especially when the result is both beautiful and practical — a touch of rustic charm that feels at home in any timeless interior. Today I want to show you how I gave my countertop a new life using DBC Microcement, a ready-mix formula designed for single-layer application, which makes it wonderfully beginner-friendly.

Microcement is one of those materials that bridges the old and the new. It has that aged, tactile quality reminiscent of Mediterranean stone and lime plaster, yet it’s durable, easy to maintain, and suits a modern kitchen just as well as a rustic farmhouse.
I had a very budgetfriendly countertop from ikea in a super gloss surface originally. Just look at it now 🙂

What You’ll Need

• DBC Microcement (ready mix) I used: Microcent för bänkskiva Färg Sandvit
• A trowel or wide spatula
• Sandpaper (fine grit)
• Protective gloves
• A damp cloth
• Optional: Sealer or wax for a matte finish

Step 1 — Prepare the Surface

Start with a clean, dry, and smooth surface. Wipe away any grease or dust — this will help the microcement adhere properly. If your countertop is very glossy, give it a light sanding first to create a bit of grip.

Step 2 — Apply the Microcement

This is where the magic happens. Using your trowel, spread a thin, even layer of DBC Microcement across the surface. Don’t worry about perfection — part of its charm lies in the slight texture and movement of your strokes.

Because this formula is designed for single-layer application, you won’t need to build multiple coats. One layer is enough to achieve that authentic, handcrafted look.
Now, here comes my personal style and technique: I let the micorcement dry a bit but not to much, like 30 min or so. Then I use a humid sponge to smooth out the lines, roughness and also to shape corners if I like in this case wanted a more rounded shape so it didn’t look so modern and sharp.

If You prefer wath a video instead of reading here’s a link to the tutorial

Step 3 — Let It Dry

Allow the surface to dry completely. Depending on the temperature and humidity, this usually takes around 24 hours. As it dries, you’ll begin to see beautiful variations in tone and texture — a hallmark of true microcement.

Step 4 — Smooth and Seal

Once dry, lightly sand the surface to remove any rough edges or raised areas. Wipe away the dust, then seal the surface with a matte wax or natural sealer to protect it and enhance its soft, stone-like finish.
I used both sealer and lineseed wax.

Step 5 — Enjoy the Imperfections

Microcement isn’t about uniformity — it’s about creating something that feels lived-in and timeless. The subtle variations and textures make each piece unique, just like the homes and kitchens we love around the Mediterranean.

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A project like this is a reminder that beauty often lies in simplicity — in materials that age gracefully and tell a story. Whether you’re renovating an old space or adding a touch of character to something new, microcement is a wonderful way to create that timeless resonance that feels both natural and enduring.

Can you do it youself?

Yes! Actually I prefer the result of my own unprofessional result over the professional ones since they tend to look to perfect and smooth rather than rustic and historic. But of course it’s all about personal preferences.

Save this tutorial on Pinterest for later and come back to it when you’re ready to bring a touch of Mediterranean simplicity into your home.