gdevinney wrote:
In a 90 Year old house, plaster walls have spider cracks. They seem to
not be into the plaster, but may be just cracked layers of paint. I
see a shiny surface in the cracks, so I wonder if it's cracked paint
on top of an old glossy oil pain w/o proper prep.

We primed & painted, but the cracks reappear immediately. A
contractor skim coated a room & painte, they came back. Not sure
what he used.

I don't want to put in the time and effort of using mesh solutions,
and definately don't want to tear out the plaster.

Is hanging wallpaper the best and easiest solution, or can some paint
or easy roll on type product cover this?

If the paint isn't peeling or blistered, you can fill fine cracks with
paintable caulk. It is normally used for corner cracks, which most
rooms eventally get. You can smoosh it on with finger and wipe smoothe
with damp rag. If cracks are numerous, try applying with wide spackle
blade. A little flexibility will probably keep cracks from coming
through as quickly, at least, and won't do any harm. Be sure it is
paintable!!