Armed with brush and paints, are we all ready to paint…
In the journey of creating a colorful masterpiece, we often try to utilize different painting techniques or styles. One common technique used by both beginners and artists is layering. Layering, the technique of applying multiple paint coats to achieve a beautiful result, seems easy, but can become complicated if we are new to it.
When layering the paint coats, the first and foremost thing to know is “How long to wait between coats of paint on canvas?” Or “How long between coats of paint?” If the process of layering is rushed or we do not give the paint layer enough time to dry, it can ruin the painting.
So, if you want to know how long to wait in between coats of paint, dive into this guide, which not only answers the question of dry time between coats of paint but also describes how many coats of paint to apply on canvas and how to make paint dry faster.
How many coats of paint to apply on canvas?
‘How many coats of paint to apply on canvas’ is a commonly asked question, especially by beginners. As the layers affect the overall appearance of our canvas painting, it’s important to understand the factors that are required for layering:
We should consider the following factors before concluding the number of paint coats we need to apply to the canvas:
Type of paint
– Surface of canvas
– Painting Effects
– Colors
Learn how many coats of paint to apply on canvas with this guideline below:
1. Priming Layer (Gesso)
1 to 3 Coats – If your canvas is not primed, it is essential to prime the canvas with gesso. Applying 2-3 coats will create a smoother surface for painting.
2. Base Coat
1 Coat – The base coat is the main step of the painting process that sets the complete tone of the painting. For the base coat, apply a solid background color (one coat paint) across the canvas. Apply another coat of paint if the coat of paint appears patchy or the surface absorbs too much paint.
3. Main Layers
2 to 4 Coats (or more) – Applying the main paint coats is an important step that will bring your painting to life. Therefore, it is necessary to apply the right number of paint layers on the canvas. But before applying the coats, take the opacity and quality of paint into consideration.
- For lighter paints, apply more layers to get a better coverage, whereas for the paints that has more pigments, applying few layers will work.
- The number of paint coats to apply also depends on the type of paint:
- Acrylic paints – 2-3 coats
- Oil paints – 1-2 paints
Painting drying: How to make paint dry faster?
- Temperature: While painting, ensure the temperature is between 65–75°F. Colder temperatures will slow the evaporation process, and hot will make the paint crack.
- Apply Thin Layers: For the paint to dry faster apply thin layers of paint. Wait for the paint to dry completely before adding another layer.
- Increase Airflow: Another way to dry paint faster is by increasing the air circulation around the canvas. Open the windows and doors for natural airflow. Use a fan or hairdryer to dry the paint faster without disturbing the paint.
- Use Fast-Drying Mediums: Using drying medium such as Liquin Original, Neo Megilp, or Cobalt Drier can help the paint coat dry faster.
Canvas Painting: How long to wait between coats of paint?
| Painting Type | Medium | How long to wait between coats of paint |
| Acrylic Painting on Canvas | Water-based acrylic | 15–30 minutes (touch dry), 1–2 hours (recoat) |
| Oil Paintings on Canvas | Oil-based | 24–48 hours to weeks |
| Watercolor Painting | Water + pigment | 5–15 minutes |
1. Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is a fast drying paint that can be used by both beginners and artists. The usual drying time is 15-30 minutes. Wait for the paint to dry completely before applying the second layer of paint on the canvas.
2. Oil Paint
Creating an oil painting canvas that can last a century and be admired by others requires more than sealing the paint. The paint layers play a part. Oil paints are slow to dry paints that usually take 24 to 48 hours to dry thin layers of oil paint.
3. Watercolors
Watercolors, the water soluble paints known for their transparency, ultra fast drying, and lightweight materials. This fast drying medium takes 2 to 5 minutes for light washes and 10 to 15 minutes for heavy washes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not letting the layer dry
Before applying the next coat painting, check the paint layer to ensure it is completely dry. Use a fan or hair dryer to dry the paint if needed.
- Using too many strokes
If you habitually use multiple strokes, choose high-quality and heavyweight paper or canvas.
- Too much water
Using too much water can lead to color bleeding and uneven drying. Use a little amount of water and dab it gently on a paper towel before applying.
- Low-quality material
Use high-quality materials like 100% cotton or watercolor paper to avoid warping and buckling of paper.
- Using unclean brushes
Dirty brushes can muddy the painting. Clean the brushes properly before using them again for the next layer.
Paint by Numbers Layering: How long between paint coat?
The layering process and time is same in both paint by number kits and traditional paintings. However, the drying time depends on the type of paint and other mediums that we use. The paint by number kits usually provide acrylic paints in the kit. The drying time are as follows:
- Thin Layer: 10-20 minutes
- Thick Layer: 30 minutes
How long to wait between coats of paint? – Wrap Up!
To conclude our journey of layering, we can surmise that this technique can either make or break your masterpiece. Whether you are using acrylics paints, oil paints or watercolor paints, understanding how long to let paint dry between coats can prevent smudging and unwanted textures.
In the painting process, the urge to speed up and finish the painting can be tempting but remember patience is important. Take the time to paint each coat and allow it to dry completely. Happy layering….
Check out the paint by number kits at Art of Paint by Numbers and begin your painting journey today!
