Do I need to sand wall after skimming?

[stargirl04]

Hi, sorry to ask - and don't laugh - but I'm a complete DIY beginner and lack of cash has forced me to try to skim part of my wall, which was previously wallpapered.

I've done a few patches and they look okay, but when I run my hand over them they feel quite rough. Which leads me to wonder if I should sand them before I put paint on (special paint with primer already in it, which the man at B&Q talked me into spending extra on... gah!)

Thanks

Yup start slightly course and work down to fine. Pain in the arse but essential!!

Thanks Doorbell - I didn't think I'd have to start with coarse sandpiper and progress to fine sandpaper! Sounds like a lot of work but hey ho.... I'm sure it'll all be worth it.

Thanks again.

my dh used a 120 grit paper
just slide your hand over to remove the little lumps and bumps and sand a little harder on the snags untill its smooth.
once you have done your mist coat, this will also show up more you didnt see

I have a small sanding machine (a bargain from Argos!). Would it be okay to use that, as sanding by hand takes for ever.

I don't think you need the special primer from B&Q, just some watered down (50/50) white Matt paint for the mist coat and then 2 layers of final colour (our decorator seems to prefer dulux). B&Q are good at taking things back if you have the receipt...

You can use your sander - might not be very powerful for large areas, but could be preferable to doing it by hand. Put dust sheets down (I have a collection of old sheets, duvet covers and curtains for this), wear a dust mask and eye protection. Oh and keep the door to the room closed.

Thanks for these tips people. Mumsnet is such a fount of knowledge!

Definately sand - coarse then fine. Use dulux white Matt watered down 50:50 first to bond the paint to the walls. If you don't then paint will later flake or chip off easily. No idea what the special primer paint is ?!??? Never buy cheap own brand paint - get dulux trade, as it's tons better.

Was just going to post about the piss paint but somebody beat me to it.
I have just finished the white wash on our freshly plastered walls. I usually do 2 coats and leave to sink in for about a week before painting over.