Painting bookcase

[poshme]

I have an old wooden bookcase which is white. I think gloss white, but very old & scuffed. Do I have to sand it if I want to paint it? It's not glossy like doors are, but not as matt as walls IYSWIM.
Ideally I want the easiest possible way to paint it.
Sorry if its a stupid question- I've never painted furniture b4 as everything else is ikea or old mahogany!

Bumping for you, because I've got the same q about a gloss painted chest of drawers.

I'm hoping a quick rub down with sandpaper will be enough to smooth out the worst of the chips and give a key for the new paint to grip to. I'm planning on using satinwood rather than gloss when I repaint.

Sand well. Wipe over. 2 coats of undercoat, followed by 1 of satinwood or gloss or egg shell. 2 if you need it. This makes it very hard wearing. Most people only do 1 undercoat but 2 makes the finish better.

Thank you! I think I'll start next weekend.

You can use Annie Sloane paint. No primer or sanding required.

Does chalk paint not rub off the edges? I thought it was for getting that antique "distressed" look.

No sleepy - that's just an effect you can do.

I think you can just add a touch of water and get one solid colour. There's info on her website.

Ooh, ok. I'll go and have a look.

I bought paint stripped and scrapped off a lot and sanded it. The Annie Sloan stuff mentioned is meant to be great.

annie sloan paint us fab. . I've just done a dresser and coffee table , tv stand and bookcase to do.... I did fireplace and bedroom furniture last year . so easy ...