How to paint trim without sanding?

DOes anyone know how to paint trim without sanding? Should I use chalk paint?


  13 answers
  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on May 29, 2019

    You shouldn't have to sand it unless there is a finish on it that would prevent the paint from adhering.

    I wouldn't recommend chalk paint unless you like the shabby look on your trim.

  • Jeremy Hoffpauir Jeremy Hoffpauir on May 29, 2019

    You could prime it then paint it. Just make sure to remove any loose dirt or debris.

  • Tuula - Color Me Thrifty Tuula - Color Me Thrifty on May 29, 2019

    Make sure to use a high adhesion primer.

  • I've never sanded trim before painting, but every house that I have ever lived in was older. No glossy paint to be found. The paint stuck just fine. Especially if you're not changing the color.

  • Gk Gk on May 20, 2020

    I would just clean the trim well and let it dry. As long as you are using the same brand and color as well as the same sheen paint I think you will be fine.

  • Kmdreamer Kmdreamer on May 20, 2020

    If it’s peeling, then sand down the peeling spots. Otherwise, just re-paint it

  • Bel40103685 Bel40103685 on May 20, 2020

    Make sure you use the same type especially if you don't sand like enamel, flat or gloss. I'm definitely not an expert.

    Sanding does even lightly gives better bonding. Going from stain to paint good sanding, kilts and then paint.

  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on May 20, 2020

    Clean with TSP and you should be fine.

  • Gk Gk on Mar 07, 2018

    If you are painting over raw wood you might want to prime first. If you are painting new baseboards that are not yet attached--consider using spray paint--or paint in a paint sprayer--goes much faster and no brush marks.

  • Ebbjdl Ebbjdl on Mar 07, 2018

    I'd wash them with mild soap and water to get the dust and dirt off. High gloss looks nice.

  • Fiddledd224 Fiddledd224 on Mar 07, 2018

    Sanding helps the paint to adhere, however, if it is too hard for you, you can buy a liquid sander that can be applied to create the same roughed-up surface to help the paint adhere. You can buy it at any home improvement store in the paint department.

  • Amanda Amanda on Mar 07, 2018

    I have done it both ways. I found that priming the baseboards before you paint works well.

  • Geew Geew on Mar 07, 2018

    If they have been painted prior, I would recommend sanding. If raw wood, no, you won't need to.