A method for manufacturing a decorative element comprising a substrate and a top layer wherein the substrate is made of an engineered stone and wherein the top layer comprises a decorative pattern, comprising the steps of:
- providing a mixture comprising at least an inorganic filler and a binder;
- compacting the mixture;
- and
- curing the binder to obtain the substrate;
- wherein the method comprises the step of inkjet printing a first decorative pattern on at least a top surface of the substrate;
- and
- wherein the method comprises the step of providing a protective coating above the printed pattern, wherein the protective coating comprises a base coat that is applied immediately on top of the printed pattern and a top-coat that is provided above the base coat, between the application of the base coat and the application of the top coat the method comprises the step of sanding the base coat.