Drying:The gift of time

Controlling the drying time when painting with acrylic paint is important for several reasons:

1.         Improved Blending: Slower drying times allow for more time to blend colours smoothly on the canvas. This is crucial for creating gradients, soft transitions, and detailed colour mixing directly on the artwork.

2.         Enhanced Techniques: Certain painting techniques, such as wet-on-wet or glazing, require the paint to remain workable for longer periods. Controlling the drying time enables artists to use these techniques effectively.

3.         Increased Flexibility: With extended drying time, artists have more flexibility to adjust, correct mistakes, and refine details without the paint drying too quickly. This can be especially beneficial for complex compositions and intricate details.

4.         Extended Working Time: For larger projects or detailed areas, having extended drying time allows artists to work on sections of the painting without worrying about the paint drying prematurely.

5.         Consistency: By controlling drying time, artists can ensure a consistent working time across different areas of the painting, leading to a more cohesive and unified final piece.

6.         Layering and Glazing: Slower drying times facilitate the application of multiple layers and glazes. This can add depth and richness to the painting, as each layer can be worked and modified before it dries completely.

7.         Reduced Stress: Knowing that the paint won’t dry too quickly reduces the pressure on the artist, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable painting process.

In summary, controlling the drying time of acrylic paint provides artists with greater control, flexibility, and the ability to achieve a wider range of techniques and effects – having control of drying time helps to combat climatic changes in temperature and humidity.

Derivan, markers of ‘Matisse’, produce the world’s best mediums that alter dying speed so that you, the artist, can make time work for you.