Soapstone kitchen countertops are known for their sudsy feel and their ability to resist heat and stains. Soapstone is a natural stone made from talc and magnetite, and it develops a natural patina, which is a light oxidation. 

However you still may find the soapstone countertop surface chipped or cracked, but they should be easy to fix without a replacement. Fix cracks, scratches, and chips in soapstone countertops by following these instructions.. 

Prepare to Fix the Soapstone Countertop

To fix the countertop, gather:

• work gloves
• eye goggles
• sponge
• cloths 
• mixing stick
• cotton swab
• paper plate 
• rubbing alcohol
• masking tape
• putty knife 
• 100-grit to 220-grit sandpaper and sanding block
• mineral oil acetone 
• epoxy resin
• soapstone pieces

Clear the countertop, and wipe the surface with a clean cloth to remove debris.To make scratched areas more visible, use a wet sponge to wipe the area and let it dry. 

Fix  Scratches

Light scratches can commonly b e buffed with mineral oil, which darkens the surface. Soapstone surfaces have a mineral oil finish. Dab some mineral oil on a cloth, and rub the surface using a circular movement. Repeat the procedure until the scratch disappears.

Deep scratches will need to be sanded. Fold a piece of sandpaper into quarters, and sand using even pressure., or wrap the sandpaper around a sanding block. Change sides when the paper starts sticking, clean dust, and apply mineral oil to even the color. If the scratch is very deep, increase grit size.  

Repair Chips and Cracks

Fix moderate chips or cracks with a two-part epoxy. Sand the chipped or cracked area, and wipe the dust. Follow directions to mix the epoxy on a paper plate using a stir stick or the provided tools. Fix cracks by spreading the mixture on the surface with a putty knife.

To repair a chip, crumble the soapstone pieces into the epoxy, and stir the mixture. Hold a putty knife at a 15-degree angle, spread the mixture on the chip in a back and forth motion, and let it cure. Apply the epoxy quickly before it dries.

Use an artist's brush to get into non-flat surfaces. To hold the mixture on a corner in place until it dries, cover them with masking tape. 

Sand the dried epoxy to make it even with the surface, beginning with the lowest sandpaper grit, and working up to 220-grit. Clean the sanding dust, let the surface dry, use a damp sponge to wipe the surface. Let the countertop dry, then rub mineral oil on the area.