Can I paint over lining paper on plaster walls?

If you want the most reliable surface for paint, remove the lining paper, then deal with the plaster underneath. It’s more work, but any weak paste or loose paper can show up later as bubbles, lifting, or visible seams.

Soften it with wallpaper remover or warm water and work gently with a broad scraper. I wouldn’t start with an orbital sander, which can damage the plaster and won’t solve loose paper. Patch and smooth the wall afterward, then use a primer suited to the plaster and paint.

If the lining is genuinely well stuck, smooth, and dry, painting over it may be workable. Check the whole wall for loose edges, bubbles, open seams, or damaged spots. Anything loose needs to come off, since paint won’t make it secure.

Try a small, inconspicuous area first. Moisture from primer or paint can loosen the paste, so follow the primer maker’s guidance for paper and plaster, and let the test area dry before deciding. Avoid aggressive sanding on the paper. If seams or patches stand out, a thin skim coat may give a better finish.

There’s a middle option if stripping every wall feels like too much: keep only the firmly bonded lining, remove loose sections, then have the uneven areas skimmed. That can save a full replaster while giving you a smoother base than paint alone.

Do a small test before committing to primer or paint across the room. If the lining wrinkles or lifts, stop and strip it rather than trying to seal over the problem.