msdaphne's Profile

Two steps, the first for practicality and the second for aesthetics. The books are all organized by subject (poetry, fiction, philosophy), but within those categories I just tried to make the arrangement look attractive, without worrying about alphabetizing.

Thanks for all the comments! I found the contact paper at Home Depot, in their paint/home dec section. It's faux leather, but once it's down it looks like a standard slightly textured countertop finish.

I've had it on the counters for about three weeks, and it seems to be holding up really well--none of the seams have peeled or lifted, and it hasn't been damaged from wet glasses or dishes sitting on it. I just caulked around the sink to seal the edges, since water can sit behind it, and the stove, and so far so good.

I think the most important thing is to start with a really clean countertop, and use something with a straight edge to smooth on the paper as you lay it down and remove the air bubbles. When you're ready to remove it, you can use a hair dryer to soften the adhesive, and then use Goo Gone or rubbing alcohol to dissolve any leftover glue.

Let me know if you have any more questions, and thanks for voting!