Liquitex colors and mediums have been developed as a complete system for work on virtually all porous surfaces and with an unlimited range of specialty effects, from thick sculptural applications to thin permanent watercolors and everything in between. Our products are known for their versatility and are well-suited for all applications and techniques, from traditional to experimental to cutting-edge contemporary. Our Professional Products include artist colors in Soft, Heavy and Super Heavy Body as well as Specialty Paints, Surface Preparations, Additives, Mediums and Varnishes. Liquitex Value Series products include Basics and Basics Matt Acrylic Colors, ideal for artists just beginning their journey as well as students.
Drying Time:
The dry time for all water based artists acrylic media depends on how quickly the water can evaporate from the application. This is dependent on –
- The thickness of the product. For example, fluid varnishes will dry much more quickly than thick gels.
- The thickness of the application. For example, thin applications will dry much more quickly than thick applications.
- Relative temperature and humidity of the environment. For example, applications on warm, dry days will dry much faster than on cold, damp days.
- Absorbency of the substrate. For example, applications on absorbent surfaces will dry more quickly than on a hard, non-absorbent surface.
There is a difference between dry time and cure time.
Dry time is when the surface feels dry to the touch.
Cure time is when the acrylic film is fully stable, close to its maximum durability, water resistant and less vulnerable to attack by mild solvents. This usually takes at least three days for thin applications and may take much longer (up to two weeks or more) for thick applications such as with Liquitex Super Heavy Body Color .
For paint applications other than blending, wait until the surface is touch-dry before applying more paint. Thick applications should be firm and no longer 'springy,' with no obviously wet portions remaining beneath. Dry time can be accelerated by using a hair dryer.
For varnish application, paint must be cured before varnishing. For two coats of varnish, wait until the surface feels completely dry to the touch before applying a second coat. This means that there should be no feeling of dampness to the hand when placed on the surface. Dry time can be accelerated by using a hair dryer. A good rule of thumb is to wait at least 12 hours between applications of varnish.
