How long does oil paint take to dry?

The length of time it takes for oil paint to dry depends on several factors. Generally, a normal application of oil on canvas is dry to the touch within a week and fully dry within two to three weeks.

Variables include the thickness of the application, the type and brand of the paint, the color of the paint and the environmental conditions of the room in which the painting is left to dry. Thick applications of oil paint potentially take up to six months or longer to completely dry. Ivory black and titanium white tend to dry very slowly. Fast-drying thinners, drying mediums or thickened linseed oil speed up drying time, as well as the avoidance of damp, cold room conditions.