Handrail and spindles makeover

[jacoscar]

Hello, we want to paint our handrails and spindles

I assumed this was easier than a complete replacement but I stand corrected

We have already sanded everything but need to replace a couple of spindles as they are bent

They are just square spindles 23-24mm, I tried to look for replacement ones but the only ones I can find are bigger in size, any suggestion?

Also, what’s the best way to remove them?

 

[footprints]

They are usually held in with slips of wood nailed into the groove under the handrail and the lower one too between the uprights.
Cut the old upright, pull it out and then you should be able to lever out the wood slips, fit the new upright and pin the slips back in either side of it to secure.
Spindles are usually made of a solid knot free wood like Hemlock, at least yours are square so planing down a larger size is pretty easy.

I have seen them bodged with "toe nails" driven in at an angle hopefully yours have been done properly.

 

[foxhole]

You could rip 6x1 timber and finish to size .