Dear James: My budget is very limited, but I need a new kitchen countertop. Is there any type of attractive low-cost countertop I can make myself? — Michael D. Dear Michael: Even if you are not ...

Using a two or four-foot level, make sure the tops of all the kitchen cabinets are flush and level—from front to back and side to side. If your cabinets are not level, see if you can correct them ...