Here is a simple method for a DIY copper table top that anyone can do in just a few days. For those that like the looks of the copper penny tables but do not have the ocd to do it. Here is a quicker way. Copper flashing.
When we built our business, I wanted something that stood out and looked different and unique for the bar. After a brain storming session, we decided to go with copper. We doubled up two pieces of 3/4 inch plywood and screwed them together on a 1×1 foot grid and then gorilla glued 24 inch copper flashing onto the top and set heavy weights onto it over night to help with adhesion.
I wanted a weathered look to it, so I took a sander, rolling pin and a hammer to the copper after the glue had set. The dark spots are from using some copper cleaner on it to remove all grease and dirt before we poured the bar top sealer on top of it. When we were done, it started darkening and we think it is where some of the residue from the cleaner remained. It gives it some depth and has darkened quite a bit of the years. What I thought was a failure had turned into one of it’s most distinguishing features.
We added a L corner on the end of the bar and butted up a section of flashing to the main section. We drilled out every inch or so and used copper nails to hold down the edges. We also did the whole perimeter of the bar with copper nails as well.
We used some one inch material to trim the edge of the bar top all the way around. I really hammered the heck out of this part; there was an air bubble so I drilled a hole to release most of the air and started pounding to flatten it out some.
Here is what it looked like the day I finished it, I could easily bring it back to that by stripping the sealer and cleaning it. Yet I prefer the aged look after almost ten years of heavy use.
The method is also very inexpensive compared to other counter top methods that we had looked at. If my memory serves me correct we built this for under two hundred dollars. It holds up very well and will guarantee to be a conversation piece in your home or business.
