Expert: Eileen Cronk - 1/24/2008

Question
I want to repaint my old bedroom set, well some pieces, I want to know if it is absolutely necessary to sand and prime and all that or can I just paint it...I am looking for the easiest fastest way to do it, the less hassle the better.

Answer
Hi Jennifer
Nice to hear from you
I understand where you are coming from Jennifer.
The answer is No its not necessary to sand but the wood still needs to be prepped in order for the new paint to adhere well.
You can do this easily.
Use a TSP solution with a medium steel wool pad as a scrubber. No mess this way and it should not take more than an hour for the entire set.
About the primer. I can tell you that for years I never used a primer when doing a job like this. Just two  coats of paint.
I do believe that on bare wood we are going to paint, its necessary.
I do not feel its absolutely necessary on a finished surface such as your set.
So the answer to both questions is No...its not absolutely necessary to sand and prime an already finished surface before painting.
Bet you like that LOL
Great question
Kindest Regards
Eileen