How long does it take for OIL paint to dry?

How long it takes for a coat or layer of oil paint to dry to the stage where you can apply another coat depends on the technique you're using. Oil paints can be used wet on wet, thick on thin, or wet on dry. If you're painting glazes, you need to wait until the paint is thoroughly dry, so think at least a day rather than an hour. Test the paint to see if it's dry with your finger. If it's too sticky, you need to leave it for longer. If you don't give it enough time you will find the new layer you are putting on will be pulling off the previous layer. (No harm done, you can always go over it, oils are forgiving.) The drying time also depends on the oil paint colours you're using (some dry faster than others -- see Oil Painting FAQ: Which Oil Paint Colors Have the Fastest Drying Times?) and how much (if any) drying oil you're using. If you find you're continually getting frustrated waiting for oil paint to dry, try having various paintings on the go simultaneously, so you can swap ...  more