DIY Farmhouse Concrete Countertops: Your Ultimate Guide to Rustic Modern Kitchens

Are you dreaming of infusing your farmhouse kitchen with a unique blend of modern appeal and rustic charm? DIY concrete countertops present a compelling and creative solution. These versatile surfaces are not only remarkably affordable but also offer an unparalleled degree of customization, allowing you to tailor everything from their color to their finish, making your kitchen truly one-of-a-kind.

In this comprehensive guide, we will meticulously walk you through every stage of the process. From a detailed comparison of concrete with popular alternative materials to an in-depth, step-by-step instruction manual for building and installing your own custom countertops, we’ve got you covered. This journey will empower you to craft the kitchen you’ve always envisioned.

Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast eager for a new challenge or a beginner looking to embark on a rewarding home improvement project, this guide is designed to help you transform your kitchen into the cozy, functional, and exquisitely farmhouse-inspired space you’ve always desired. Get ready to create stunning, durable, and uniquely personal countertops that will be the heart of your home.

In this guide, we’ll delve into:

A thorough comparison of concrete with popular countertop materials like granite, quartz, and laminate.
A detailed cost analysis to help you weigh the financial benefits of DIY versus professional installation.
Essential tips and best practices for the long-term care and maintenance of your concrete countertops.
An extensive, step-by-step guide to building and installing your own DIY concrete countertops.
Creative customization ideas to ensure your new countertops are truly unique and reflect your personal style.

Why Choose Concrete Countertops for Your Farmhouse Kitchen Renovation?

There’s an undeniable allure that farmhouse concrete countertops bring to a kitchen space. They embody a perfect marriage of robust strength and understated style, making them an ideal choice for the heart of any home, especially for those who love to cook and gather. Their industrial-chic aesthetic seamlessly complements the warmth and natural elements characteristic of farmhouse design, creating a balanced and inviting atmosphere.

Many homeowners are increasingly gravitating towards concrete counters precisely because of their remarkable ability to enhance farmhouse and rustic kitchen designs. Their clean lines and raw, natural appearance beautifully contrast with and complement traditional wooden cabinets, vintage fixtures, and exposed shelving. The inherent versatility of concrete means you can shape, texture, and color these surfaces to perfectly align with your precise aesthetic and functional requirements, ensuring a bespoke finish that truly stands out.

Concrete vs. Other Popular Countertop Materials: How Does It Stack Up?

When considering new countertops for your kitchen renovation, it’s crucial to understand how different materials perform. Let’s take a closer look at how farmhouse concrete countertops compare against some of the most common alternatives, helping you make an informed decision for your home.

Material	Durability	Appearance	Functionality	Cost (Per Sq. Ft.)
Concrete	Highly durable and resilient, but proper reinforcement is crucial to prevent cracking. Requires regular sealing to protect against stains and moisture.	Offers a unique natural, industrial, or rustic look. Highly customizable with pigments, aggregates, and various finishes, from smooth polished to textured.	Excellent heat and scratch resistance once sealed. Porous by nature, so sealing is essential for water and stain protection. Its significant weight necessitates strong base cabinet support.	Moderate. DIY options are highly cost-effective, typically ranging from $8-$15. Professional installation can cost around $70–$130.
Granite	Exceptionally durable, naturally resistant to extreme heat, scratches, and chips. Generally requires sealing, but less frequently than concrete.	A natural stone with distinctive, intricate patterns and veining, providing a luxurious, high-end and timeless appearance. No two slabs are exactly alike.	Highly heat-resistant and relatively low-maintenance. If properly sealed, it resists stains effectively. Also quite heavy, requiring robust cabinet structures.	Expensive, typically ranging from $50–$200.
Quartz	An engineered stone known for its superior durability and remarkable resistance to chips, cracks, and impacts, often outperforming natural stone in these aspects.	Offers a more uniform and consistent appearance than natural stone. Available in a vast array of colors and patterns, including options that mimic marble and granite.	Non-porous and highly stain-resistant, eliminating the need for sealing. While durable for everyday use, it’s less heat-resistant than granite, so hot pads are recommended.	Expensive, usually between $60–$150.
Laminate	The least durable of the options; highly susceptible to damage from heat and scratches, though modern laminates offer decent water resistance.	Comes in an extensive range of colors, patterns, and finishes, capable of mimicking the look of stone, wood, or solid colors, though often less realistic than genuine materials.	Budget-friendly and the easiest to install, making it a popular DIY choice. Not heat or scratch-resistant and prone to wear and tear over time, but its low cost makes replacement affordable.	Affordable, generally costing $20–$60.

Pros and Cons of Concrete Countertops for Your Kitchen

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of concrete is key to deciding if it’s the right choice for your farmhouse kitchen. Here’s a balanced look at what these surfaces offer:

Good points about concrete countertops:

Unmatched Customization: You have complete control over the design, allowing for unique shapes, sizes, colors, textures, and embedded elements that perfectly match your vision.
Exceptional Durability: Once properly cured and sealed, concrete countertops are incredibly robust, standing up well to the rigors of daily kitchen use, heat, and impacts.
Cost-Effective Option: When undertaken as a DIY project, concrete is significantly more affordable than natural stone or engineered quartz, offering high-end looks without the high-end price tag.
Increased Home Value: Custom concrete countertops add a distinctive, high-quality touch to your kitchen, potentially enhancing your home’s aesthetic appeal and market value.
Repairable: Unlike some materials, minor chips or surface imperfections in concrete can often be repaired and blended, extending the lifespan and beauty of your counters.

Points to consider about concrete countertops:

Requires Regular Sealing: Concrete is porous, so it needs to be sealed annually (or more frequently in high-use areas) to prevent staining and water absorption.
Significant Weight: Concrete is very heavy. Your existing cabinets must be sturdy and adequately reinforced to support the substantial weight of these countertops.
Vulnerability to Stains: Even with sealing, highly acidic liquids, oils, or strong pigments can cause staining if not wiped up promptly, requiring diligent cleaning habits.
Time-Consuming Curing Process: The concrete needs several days or even weeks to fully cure and reach its maximum strength, which adds to the overall project timeline.
Potential for Hairline Cracks: While often superficial and not structural, small hairline cracks can sometimes appear over time due to various factors, adding to their rustic character.

DIY Concrete Countertops: Your Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

Creating beautiful farmhouse concrete countertops is a rewarding project that demands precision, patience, and careful attention to detail. Follow this comprehensive guide to help you successfully build and install your perfect kitchen surfaces.

Tools and Materials Needed for Your DIY Project

Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything on hand will streamline your workflow and prevent unnecessary delays.

Essential Tools	Required Materials
Measuring tape	Melamine sheets (for molds)
Circular saw	High-quality concrete countertop mix
Jig saw (for sink cutouts)	Rebar or wire mesh (for reinforcement)
Miter saw	Glass fibers (optional, for added strength and crack resistance)
Table saw (optional, for precise cuts)	Rigid foam or plywood (for sink and faucet knockouts)
Screwdriver	Painter’s tape
Power drill	100% silicone sealant or clear caulk
Rubber mallet	Acrylic fortifier (improves concrete strength and workability)
Steel trowel and floats	Portland cement (for slurry mix)
Various grits of sandpaper	Food-safe concrete sealer (penetrating or topical)
Electric concrete mixer (rent or purchase)	Color additives or pigments (optional, for custom hues)
Wet polisher (optional, for a highly polished finish)	Screws (1 5/8 inches, for mold assembly)
Orbital sander (optional, for initial smoothing)	Superglue or hot glue gun (for securing mold elements)
Bolt cutters or angle grinder (for cutting rebar/mesh)	Drywall screws (for securing mold to work surface)
Large mixing bucket	PVC pipe or similar (for faucet hole knockouts)

Step 1 – Preparing Your Workspace

Begin by thoroughly clearing and cleaning your work area. Remove any existing countertops, ensuring the cabinets are stable, level, and ready to support the new concrete. Create accurate paper patterns or templates of your exact kitchen layout, including any irregular shapes or corners. This step is critical for precise planning and mold construction.

Step 2 – Measure and Plan with Precision

Accuracy is paramount in this stage. Take extremely precise measurements for each individual counter piece you intend to cast. Document all critical dimensions:

The exact length and width of each countertop section.
Your desired thickness for the countertops (typically between 1.5 to 2 inches for strength and aesthetic appeal).
Precise dimensions and locations for all sink and stove openings.
The desired style for the front edge of your counters (e.g., bullnose, eased, square).

Step 3 – Building the Molds with Melamine

Construct sturdy forms using melamine boards. Melamine is ideal due to its smooth, non-porous surface, which prevents concrete from sticking and results in a clean finish:

Cut the base piece of the mold to the exact dimensions of your countertop section, adding an extra 2 inches around the perimeter for stability during casting.
Cut the side pieces of the mold to your desired countertop height, ensuring they are perfectly square and plumb.
Construct precise cutouts for sink openings using rigid foam blocks or plywood secured within the mold.
Always use a square tool to verify that all corners are at a perfect 90-degree angle, as this directly impacts the final countertop shape.

Step 4 – Reinforcing the Concrete for Strength

Reinforcement is vital for the structural integrity and longevity of your concrete countertops. It helps prevent cracking and adds significant strength:

Carefully place a layer of wire mesh or rebar approximately 1/2 inch from the bottom of your mold. This provides tensile strength.
Double the reinforcement mesh or use additional rebar around critical stress points, such as sink and stove cutouts, where the concrete is thinner and more vulnerable.
Utilize plastic supports or “chairs” to elevate the mesh, ensuring it remains suspended within the concrete mix rather than resting on the bottom of the mold.

Step 5 – Sealing the Mold for a Watertight Structure

A perfectly sealed mold is essential to prevent concrete slurry from leaking out and creating uneven edges. This step ensures a smooth, professional finish:

Apply a continuous bead of clear silicone caulk or high-quality sealant along all interior seams and corners of your melamine mold.
Smooth the caulk with your finger or a specialized tool to create a seamless, watertight seal and a clean, crisp edge for your countertop.
Allow the caulk to dry completely for at least 4 hours, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Thoroughly inspect for any missed gaps or potential leak points before proceeding to the next step.

Step 6 – Mixing and Pouring the Concrete

This is where your countertop takes shape. Precise mixing and pouring techniques are crucial for a strong, uniform product:

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your concrete countertop mix meticulously, especially regarding the exact amount of water. Too much water weakens the concrete, while too little makes it unworkable.
If you desire a custom color, add your chosen color additives or pigments to the mix at this stage, ensuring thorough and even distribution.
Pour the concrete slowly and evenly into the mold, filling it to approximately half of its total depth.
Carefully place your reinforcement mesh or rebar onto this first layer of concrete.
Continue to fill the mold to the very top, ensuring all areas are evenly covered and the concrete is slightly mounded.

Step 7 – Vibrating and Smoothing the Surface

Removing air pockets and achieving a smooth, level surface are critical for a durable and aesthetically pleasing countertop:

Gently tap the sides of the mold with a rubber mallet to encourage air bubbles to rise to the surface.
Alternatively, use a palm sander (without sandpaper) against the bottom and sides of the mold to create vibrations that further release trapped air.
Use a straight board or a screed to level the top surface of the concrete, moving it across the mold with a back-and-forth motion.
Smooth the surface with a steel float, working in broad, sweeping motions until you achieve the desired level of smoothness.

Step 8 – The Crucial Concrete Curing Process

Proper curing is paramount for the strength and hardness of your concrete. Do not rush this step:

Immediately after smoothing, cover the entire mold with plastic sheeting or wrap to trap moisture and prevent the concrete from drying too quickly.
Allow the concrete to cure for a minimum of 48 hours before disturbing it, though longer (up to 7 days) is often better for initial strength.
Mist the concrete surface with water twice daily while covered to maintain hydration, especially in dry environments.
Maintain a consistent room temperature, ideally between 60-75°F (15-24°C), to ensure optimal curing conditions.

Step 9 – Carefully Removing the Mold

Once cured, it’s time to reveal your creation. Handle with care to avoid damage:

Carefully unscrew and remove all side pieces of the melamine mold.
Gently lift off the countertop piece, preferably with assistance due to its weight.
Inspect the edges and surfaces for any rough spots or imperfections.
Lightly sand any extremely rough edges with a fine-grit sandpaper to prepare for polishing.

Step 10 – Flipping and Polishing for a Flawless Finish

The polishing stage transforms the raw concrete into a refined, smooth surface. This step is often done with the countertop flipped over, so the bottom of the mold becomes the top surface of your counter:

Begin with a coarse grit sandpaper or polishing pad (e.g., 200 grit) and work your way up to progressively finer grits (e.g., 400, 800, 1500, 3000).
Keep the surface consistently wet during the polishing process to prevent dust, cool the pads, and achieve a smoother finish.
Work in small, manageable areas, ensuring even pressure and coverage.
Rinse the surface thoroughly between grit changes to remove slurry and expose the true finish.

Step 11 – Filling Voids and Imperfections

Small pinholes or voids are common in concrete and can be easily filled for a smoother appearance:

Mix a small batch of fine concrete slurry (a mix of Portland cement and water, sometimes with acrylic fortifier, to a paste-like consistency).
Using a trowel or putty knife, firmly press the slurry into any visible gaps, pinholes, or minor imperfections on the surface.
Allow the slurry to dry completely, which may take several hours.
Once dry, lightly sand the filled areas smooth, blending them seamlessly with the surrounding concrete surface.

Step 12 – Applying the Essential Sealer

Sealing is perhaps the most crucial step for protecting your concrete countertops from stains, moisture, and daily wear:

Ensure the concrete surface is completely clean, dry, and free of any dust or debris before applying the sealer.
Apply a high-quality, food-safe concrete sealer in thin, even coats. Follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions.
Use a clean applicator (roller, brush, or sprayer) and ensure full coverage.
Allow each coat to dry thoroughly according to the product guidelines before applying the next. Multiple thin coats are usually better than one thick coat.

Step 13 – Installing Your New Concrete Countertops

With the sealing complete, it’s time to install your beautiful, custom countertops:

Apply small dots or a thin bead of 100% silicone adhesive to the top edges of your base cabinets.
Carefully position each concrete piece onto the cabinets, ensuring precise alignment. This step often requires multiple people due to the weight.
Use shims and a level to ensure each piece is perfectly level and stable.
Check all seams where pieces meet, ensuring they are tight and even.
Once satisfied with the placement, you can secure the countertops from underneath using brackets or screws, as appropriate for your cabinet type.

Step 14 – Adding Final Touches for Perfection

These final details enhance the beauty and longevity of your concrete counters:

Apply a clear wax coating or a specialized concrete conditioner for added protection and a subtle sheen.
Buff the surface gently with a soft cloth to achieve a smooth, lustrous shine.
Re-check all edges and seams for any remaining imperfections or areas that need a touch-up.
Perform a thorough final cleaning to remove any dust or residue, leaving your new countertops sparkling.

For a more detailed visual tutorial, check out this informative YouTube video on DIY Concrete Countertops!

What Does It Cost? A Detailed Breakdown of Concrete Countertops

One of the most appealing aspects of creating farmhouse concrete countertops yourself is the significant cost savings compared to purchasing and installing pre-fabricated or professionally installed options. Understanding the cost breakdown will help you budget effectively for your dream kitchen.

Basic materials for DIY concrete countertops typically range between $8 and $15 per square foot, making them an incredibly budget-friendly choice for a high-impact renovation. This estimate generally includes:

Concrete mix: Approximately $3-5 per square foot. This includes specialized countertop mixes designed for strength and workability.
Forms and structural materials: Around $2-3 per square foot. This covers melamine, reinforcement mesh, and other mold components.
Sealer and finish: Budget $3-7 per square foot for high-quality, food-safe sealers and any optional finishing waxes or polishes.

DIY vs. Professional Installation: A Clear Cost Comparison

When you take on the project of making farmhouse concrete countertops yourself, the total material cost for a typical kitchen (around 30 square feet) can range from $200 to $500. If you need to purchase or rent specialized tools (like an electric mixer or wet polisher), factor in an additional $100-200, which you might reuse for future projects.

Opting for professional installation, while providing convenience and expertise, comes with a significantly higher price tag:

Professional work: Expect to pay anywhere from $65 to $135 per square foot, depending on your location, the complexity of the design, and the chosen finish.
Average kitchen (30 square feet): For a standard kitchen size, professional installation would cost between $1,950 and $4,050.
Extra features: Custom elements such as built-in drainboards, integral sinks, or unique edge profiles will add to the professional cost, typically ranging from $200 to $500 each for their specialized fabrication.

Customizing Your Concrete Countertops: Unleash Your Creativity

One of the most exciting aspects of DIY farmhouse concrete countertops is the boundless opportunity for personalization. These surfaces aren’t just functional; they are a canvas for your creativity, allowing you to craft truly unique, one-of-a-kind looks that perfectly complement your kitchen’s aesthetic and tell your personal story.

1. Exploring Color Options for Your Counters

The base color of your concrete can dramatically alter its appearance. Experiment with various pigments to achieve your desired shade:

White cement: Use as a base for achieving lighter, brighter shades or crisp whites that feel fresh and modern.
Iron oxide tints: Incorporate these robust pigments for deep earth tones, warm reds, rich browns, or natural grays, enhancing the rustic feel.
Cement dyes: Utilize liquid or powdered dyes to achieve a spectrum of soft, subtle, or vibrant colors, offering extensive design flexibility.
Mixed tones: Combine different pigments or use varying concentrations to create unique, mottled, or variegated natural looks that mimic stone.

2. Creative Ways to Add Embedded Items

Embed unique objects into your concrete for visual interest and personal flair. Ensure items are durable and safe for a kitchen environment:

Sea glass pieces: Tumbled sea glass adds a gentle sparkle and coastal or recycled aesthetic.
Small polished stones: River rocks or decorative pebbles can introduce natural textures and earthy tones.
Copper bits or metal shavings: These can create a subtle, shimmering effect, adding an industrial or artistic touch.
Shell fragments: Carefully placed shell pieces can evoke a beachy, natural vibe, especially appealing in light-colored concrete.

3. Essential Tips for Better Customization Results

Achieving professional-looking customization requires a thoughtful approach:

Test colors on small samples first: Always mix and cure a small sample batch of colored concrete to ensure the final shade matches your expectations.
Mix add-ins with similar sizes: For a cohesive look, group embedded items by size and texture unless a deliberately varied pattern is desired.
Keep items 1/4 inch below the surface: Ensure all embedded items are fully encased in concrete, sitting slightly below the final polished surface for durability and a smooth finish.
Place items face down in the mold: For designs where the underside of the item is the desired visible surface, arrange them face down in the mold before pouring.
Space items evenly or intentionally: Plan the placement of embedded elements to create a balanced pattern or a deliberate, artistic arrangement.

4. Inspiring Pattern Ideas You Might Like

Beyond color and embedded items, the way you manipulate the concrete can create stunning visual patterns:

Swirled effects: Achieve marbled or dynamic swirled patterns by gently mixing different colored concrete batches or by lightly dragging a tool through the wet concrete.
Speckled looks: Create a speckled appearance by sprinkling small aggregates, colored sand, or fine metal flakes onto the surface before it fully sets.
Marbled finishes: Mimic the elegant look of natural marble by carefully introducing contrasting pigments or a fine cement slurry into the wet concrete and gently swirling.
Simple bands or borders: Use tape or dividers within the mold to create distinct color bands or borders, adding a clean, modern design element.

5. Common Customization Mistakes to Skip

Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure a more successful and satisfying outcome for your custom concrete countertops:

Using too many colors at once: Overloading with too many contrasting colors can lead to a chaotic and unrefined look. Stick to a harmonious palette.
Embedding large or protruding items: Large or items that stick out too far can weaken the concrete, create weak points, or make the surface uneven and difficult to clean.
Creating excessively rough surface textures: While some texture is desirable, an overly rough surface can be impractical for a kitchen, making it harder to clean and potentially abrasive.
Uneven pattern distribution: Lack of planning for embedded items or color swirls can result in an unbalanced or unappealing pattern.
Poor item placement: Items too close to the edge or surface can chip out or compromise the structural integrity. Ensure adequate concrete coverage.

How to Maintain and Care for Your Concrete Countertops

With the right approach and consistent care, your beautiful farmhouse concrete countertops will not only retain their aesthetic appeal but also offer exceptional durability for many years to come. Simple, daily maintenance habits are incredibly effective in preserving the look and extending the lifespan of your surfaces.

Let me share valuable insights and practical tips gathered from years of experience in keeping these unique surfaces in pristine condition. Understanding these guidelines will empower you to enjoy your concrete counters without worry.

Cleaning and Maintaining Your Concrete Surfaces Daily

Daily cleaning is fundamental to keeping your farmhouse concrete countertops looking fresh, vibrant, and free from potential stains. This proactive approach prevents accumulation and preserves the sealer’s integrity:

Gentle daily wipes: For everyday cleaning, use a soft cloth dampened with mild soap (like pH-neutral dish soap) and warm water. Wipe down the entire surface thoroughly.
Immediate spill cleanup: The golden rule for concrete is to clean spills immediately, especially acidic liquids (lemon juice, vinegar, wine) or oily substances. Quick action prevents etching and staining.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Steer clear of strong, abrasive, or acidic cleaners, including vinegar-based solutions, ammonia, or bleach, as these can degrade the concrete sealer and potentially etch the surface.
Skip abrasive sponges: Never use steel wool, abrasive scouring pads, or stiff brushes that can scratch the sealed surface and compromise its protective layer.

Products that work well for routine cleaning:

pH-neutral dish soap (diluted in water)
Plain warm water
Specialized gentle stone or concrete cleaners
Soft microfiber cloths or sponges

What to absolutely avoid to protect your countertops:

Bleach-based cleaners or disinfectants
Citrus-based or acidic cleaners
Steel wool pads or harsh scrubbing brushes
Sharp tools or knives directly on the surface without a cutting board

Sealing and Protecting Your Concrete Countertop for Longevity

Regular sealing is the most critical maintenance task for your farmhouse concrete countertops. It creates a protective barrier against moisture, stains, and wear. Think of it as the ultimate defense for your investment:

Recommended sealing schedule:

First year: Reapply sealer every 3-4 months. New concrete is often more porous and benefits from more frequent initial sealing.
After the first year: Generally, reapply sealer every 6-12 months. This frequency might vary based on the type of sealer and usage.
High-use areas: In kitchens with heavy daily activity, or around sinks and cooktops, check for re-sealing needs every three months.

Clear signs you need to reseal your concrete countertops:

Water absorption: If water stops beading up on the surface and instead soaks in or leaves a dark spot, your sealer is no longer effective.
Rough surface: The surface feels rough or less smooth than usual, indicating wear on the protective layer.
Dull appearance: Your concrete colors appear dull or faded, losing their initial vibrancy.
Dark spots when wet: Areas that appear significantly darker when wet suggest the concrete is absorbing moisture.

Quick daily protection tips to extend sealer life:

Always use cutting boards: Protect your surface from scratches and knife marks by always chopping on a dedicated cutting board.
Place hot items on trivets: While concrete is heat resistant, extreme temperature changes can cause thermal shock or damage the sealer. Always use trivets under hot pots and pans.
Use coasters under wet glasses: Prevent water rings and potential etching from condensation by placing coasters under glasses, especially those containing acidic beverages.
Wipe up oil and wine quickly: These substances are common culprits for stubborn stains. Promptly blot them away to minimize absorption.

Conclusion: The Enduring Charm of DIY Concrete Countertops

Embarking on the journey of creating farmhouse concrete countertops is more than just a home improvement project; it’s an opportunity to infuse your kitchen with a deeply personal touch. The meticulous process of mixing raw materials and carefully crafting them results in surfaces that don’t just exist but truly tell a story—your story.

These handmade counters become much more than mere functional surfaces for your morning coffee or meal prep. They evolve into integral elements of your home’s character, embodying rustic elegance and modern sensibility. Each subtle shade variation, every minor imperfection, and the unique texture are testaments to the care, effort, and creativity you poured into their making, adding an authentic, lived-in feel that mass-produced alternatives simply cannot replicate.

With the proper commitment to care and ongoing maintenance, your concrete counters are built to serve you faithfully for decades. While the initial steps might seem numerous and demanding, the enduring beauty, exceptional durability, and custom appeal of the finished product make every moment of effort profoundly worthwhile. Your handcrafted concrete countertops will stand resilient through countless family meals, joyous holiday baking sessions, and the routine spills of daily life, gathering memories as they age gracefully.

Remember, every kitchen holds a unique narrative. By choosing to craft your own concrete countertops, you are adding a captivating chapter that is singularly yours—a testament to skill, innovation, and heart, creating a space that is both functional and profoundly personal.