granite tile for kitchen counter?

[cactusman]

We have 1987 vintage Formica kitchen counter tops. I can't afford solid granite or other nice but high price counter top material.
I asked on a different post about granite "covers" that fit over the original counter top but after one reply decided this also may not be prudent.

So....
I saw a home DYI program where they installed granite tile for a kitchen counter top. They indicated the grout joint can be very thin and with the right color grout may give the illusion of a solid granite top.

This sounds interesting, affordable, and possibly a "fun project".

Right now we have the typical round over edges. I doubt the granite tile has a bull nose cut to emulate that edge. I'm considering cutting the round over edge and then use oak with a 45 degree chamfer to finish the edge. I then can also stain the oak to match the cabinets.

I'm not sure about preparing the surface. Do I just sand the old Formica and then use a latex thin set? -or- do I need to apply something [what?] over the Formica and then apply the granite tile? The Formica is in good shape, I'm sure that alone will affect replies.

Locally I know of a wholesale tile place that has an amazing selection of tiles. I'm looking at either 12", 16", 24" or a mix of sized tiles so the number of grout lines will be minimal.
I have yet to measure the counter top so I can't discuss tile size right now.

I'd appreciate any comments from any tile folks reading this or from weekend warriors with their successful kitchen counter top remakes.

Thank

Cactus Man

[Pipestone Kid]

Cactus, You don't have to put an oak edge back on after you cut off the bullnose, just cut it close to the cabinets. The granite tiles come with a bull nose edge. (Unless you prefer to have an oak edge in front of the granite) As you suggested, a little light sanding and Thiset will work very nicely. I don't have granite myself, but helped a neighbor put it in and with the narrow joints it almost looks like one piece. HTH
Jim