Want to dress up your countertop? Try a decorative edge. It will add a nice detail and, in some cases, will only add $50 to $200 to the total cost.

You can do this by:

·         Cutting the countertop edge so it is not square

·         Adding a different color or material along the edge

Among the popular options are:

A beveled edge, which is angled along the front of the countertop, can create an upscale look. Try this in the same design as your countertop -- to emphasize the design -- or with a different design or material, such as wood, -- to add contrast.

A wooden edge can help accent your cabinetry or floors. Try a squared edge in wood or a wooden inlay in a small section along the top seam.

A few design examples:

·         A wooden edge (to match the cabinets) -- and to contrast with a blue countertop

·         A white edge (to match your floor) along a camel or green countertop

·         A cream colored edge with a slightly darker countertop to create a small contrast

Decorative edges are priced by the manufacturer or fabricator and range from $3 and $25 per linear foot. The cost typically is proportional to the cost of the material, so it will be more expensive to add it on a natural stone countertop than on a laminate.