I painted our spindles quite a few years ago. Yes, sanding was involved - and lots of it. Ours had been varnished. I used a medium grit paper (probably 100) and kept folding it and working the crisp edge into the grooves. I removed most if not all the surface varnish.

You may want to speak with a quality paint store about liquid sandpaper. I've never used it but perhaps it could be a labor saver.

Then, oil-base primer. It dries more slowly so you can catch runs before they harden. Be prepared to do both sides, then move to the next one but keep checking back in the event of a run.

This will take time but preparation always exceeds the finish. Good luck.

The surface must be clean and dull. The varnish doesn't need to be removed, just dull.

Sanding sponges work well on spindles. They make thin sanding pads for that purpose. Use a pad, not sandpaper. The cushion helps eliminate the chance for flat spots.

If you're priming, prime the surface with a bonding primer. Zinsser Bulls Eye 1 2 3, SW acrylic latex bonding primer, or ICI Gripper will work well.

Michael

y'know, really don't take this the wrong way, but why are you doing the prep ?; for a decorative painter in the business of having the homeowner do the prep and coming in behind someone else doing the most important part of a job and then use products over someone else's pre work, tisk-tisk.

Really, I am not trying to be rude, but personally I would never have a homeowner do that part of the job and then we come right behind something maybe blind sided.
don't know maybe that was what the bid called for.

ntl- I would use the soft contouring 3m sanding pads. They work great of things like this. They are thin and conform to your hand.

also whizz makes a curved roller just for curves and spindles.

good luck.

Thanks for the tips!

Decorativewalls: I've done business with this faux painter before. I agree with your point of view, but that's how she does it. She fancies herself as an 'artist' and any prep work or solid base color are expected to be completed before she does her part - whether by the homeowner (in my case) or a professional painter.

Just had mine painted white, but not with a faux finish. The painter cleaned the wood then used 2 coats of Shewin Williams primer, PrepRite, and two coats of white paint. No sanding. However, I did not paint the handrail. Also, there is liquid product that I have used instead of sanding that worked really well on my oak trim. I can't remember the name, but any paint store would know.