Furniture Painting Tips & Tricks: Foolproof Guide to Drying Times
Drying Times for Paint and Topcoats
One question I’m asked all the time is how long to wait between applying coats of paint and topcoat. All too often in our excitement we want to get the project done and end up rushing the process. Allowing ample drying time between coats is the first rule to achieve the best results… all good things come to those who wait!
All of our paint and topcoat products are water-based. When working with water-based products it’s necessary to wait at least the minimum specified drying time before adding the second or third coat of either product. If you rush the process, you run the risk of rehydrating the previous layer. When this happens, you can create one or more of the following situations:
- Streaking
- Uneven surface/brush marks
- Cloudy topcoat
- If using two different color layers they can “blend” and create a muddy mess.
After cleaning my piece thoroughly, I then wipe it down with distilled water to insure the removal of any type of residue. Once that’s done, my rule of thumb is to wait a day before painting.
After I paint the first layer, I allow at least 4-24 hours before applying a second layer of paint (if needed). This is all contingent on several factors, however: humidity, temperature, and whether you are working in a conditioned space or not. High humidity will require more drying time, while dry climates like Arizona require less.
If you are working in an unconditioned space, say a garage or out-building, you must bring the space, as well as your piece, to a temperature above 60 degrees. This may take a while and rushing it will cause the paint to drag and create a streaky uneven surface.
I designed the paint to be low in VOCs, which means it’s basically odorless and can be used inside your home without fear of chemical odors. I am highly chemical sensitive and literally cannot be around toxic smells, even some perfumes! The products are specifically designed to be safely used inside your home or apartment.
After you finish painting your project, allow 24 hours before applying the topcoat. This will allow all moisture to evaporate from the paint and cure. That said, if you are planning on doing a sand-through distressing technique, you only have to wait till you can lay the palm of your hand down on the piece and not pick up any wet paint before distressing. This will save you tons of time, as once the paint “cures” it will be harder to sand. After the distressing process, you must wait 24 hours before finishing with the topcoat.
Topcoat success is also highly contingent on weather and temperatures. Again, it is extremely beneficial to work in a conditioned space to ensure great results. The same guidelines outlined above for paint application are also required for the topcoat.
I always wait 24 hours between layers of topcoat. I have some painter friends who believe 4-6 hours of dry time between coats is fine, especially if spraying versus brushing. But remember to check your temperature and humidity levels.
And never roll a topcoat as it will aerate and create bubbles.
Basic Drying Guidelines
- After cleaning, wipe down your piece with distilled water. Wait 24 hours before beginning to paint.
- Allow no less than six hours between coats of paint, preferably 24.
- Allow paint to cure for 24 hours before top coating.
- Allow no less than 4-6 hours between coats of sealer (topcoat), preferably 10-24 hours.
For the first week after completing your project I suggest you not place anything on the surface of your piece, to allow the topcoat to properly cure. It is always best to err on the side of caution after all the hard work you have done to breathe new life into your piece.
Following these guidelines will ensure the best results for every project, every time. As always, let me know if you have any questions and Happy Painting!
Susan “Swooz” Hudson
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