How Long Does Gesso Take To Dry

Working with gesso is essential in canvas and other painting surfaces. Understanding the drying time is important in ensuring your artwork turns out just as you envisioned.

Gesso is often considered a painter’s best friend because it provides the perfect base upon which to begin any project and allows for a wide range of colors to be applied while keeping your art intact. 

But how long does Gesso take to dry? What are some tips to help speed up the process?

In this blog post,  I explore these questions so that you can ensure that whatever project you’re tackling looks exactly as you planned. 

What is Acrylic Gesso

Acrylic gesso is a primer for preparing surfaces, such as canvas, paper, or wood, to paint with acrylic or oil-based paints. It is a mixture of an acrylic polymer medium and calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide, or another white pigment. 

Notably, acrylic gesso creates a smooth and absorbent surface for paint application preventing the paint from soaking into the surface. 

It also provides a barrier between the surface and the paint, preventing any acidic compounds from the surface from reacting with the paint.

What is Gesso Used For? 

The application of gesso is highly varied and diverse. Some of the common uses of gesso are:

i. Priming surfaces

Gesso is primarily used for priming surfaces before painting. It creates a smooth, absorbent surface that allows the paint to adhere to the surface without soaking in. Gesso is used to prime canvas, paper, wood, and other surfaces.

ii. Creating texture

Gesso can be mixed with various materials such as sand, plaster, or modeling paste to create texture on the surface. This is useful for creating a three-dimensional effect on a painting or a textured surface.

iii. Correcting mistakes

Gesso can cover up mistakes or make corrections on a painting. If a mistake is made, gesso can be applied over the area and painted over once it dries.

iv. Sealing surfaces

Gesso seals porous surfaces such as wood, paper, or fabric. This prevents the paint from being absorbed by the surface and provides a barrier between the paint and the surface.

v. Preventing yellowing

Gesso prevents the yellowing of paintings over time. This is because gesso contains calcium carbonate, an alkaline substance that neutralizes acidic components that can cause the paint to turn yellow.

vii. Making DIY surfaces

Gesso can create DIY painting surfaces like canvases, art journals, or sketchbooks. Gesso is applied to the surface to create a smooth, absorbent surface suitable for painting.

viii. Preparing surfaces for mixed media

Gesso is also used in mixed media art to prepare surfaces for acrylics, watercolors, and pastels. The absorbent surface created by Gesso allows the different materials to blend together seamlessly.

Variations of Gesso Primer

Student-Grade Gesso

Student-grade gesso is a more affordable option compared to artist-grade gesso. It is suitable for beginners and students who are still learning to paint. 

Student-grade gesso is usually thinner and has a lower percentage of solids than artist-grade gesso, making it less durable and absorbent. 

However, it still provides a smooth base for painting and is suitable for use on canvases and papers.

Artist-Grade Gesso

Artist-grade gesso is of higher quality than student-grade gesso and is designed for professional artists. It is more expensive than student-grade gesso but provides a thicker and more absorbent surface for painting. 

Artist-grade gesso has a higher percentage of solids and is more durable than student-grade gesso. It is also more suitable for use on a textured surface or for creating a heavily layered painting.

Other Variations of Gesso

Other variations of gesso are available in the market, such as clear gesso, colored gesso, and black gesso. 

Clear gesso is used to prime surfaces without changing the color of the surface, while colored gesso is used to add color to the surface and act as a base for the final painting. 

Black gesso is used to create a dark background for paintings and to enhance the vibrancy of the colors used. 

More include colored or tinted gesso, thinner and thicker gesso. Each variation has specific properties that make it suitable for different paintings and techniques.

Why Prime a Canvas With Gesso

First, are you painting on black canvas? Here’s what you should know.

Provides a smooth surface: Priming the canvas with gesso creates a smooth surface that allows the paint to glide easily. It fills in the small crevices and gaps in the canvas weave, creating an even surface for painting.

Increases paint adhesion: Gesso increases the adhesion of the paint to the canvas. It creates a more absorbent surface and helps the paint adhere to it better.

Prevents paint from soaking in: Without gesso, the paint will soak into the canvas, making it difficult to create smooth brushstrokes. Gesso acts as a barrier between the paint and the canvas, preventing the paint from being absorbed by the canvas.

Protects the canvas: Priming the canvas with gesso also protects the canvas from the corrosive effects of oil and acrylic paints. This helps to ensure that the painting will last longer.

Allows for better color representation: Gesso can also enhance the colors in the painting by providing a brighter and more vibrant surface. This is especially true for transparent and translucent paints, as they can be affected by the color of the canvas underneath.

How Long Does It Take Gesso to Dry-F/S

On average, gesso dries to the touch within 20-30 minutes, but it takes a minimum of 24 hours to 3 days to fully cure and harden. However, the drying time of gesso depends on several factors, such as air circulation, temperature, humidity, and thickness of the layer applied.  

What Affects the Gesso Drying Time

Gesso drying time can be affected by several factors, including air circulation, temperature, humidity, thickness, and brand quality.

Air Circulation

Gesso dries faster in a well-ventilated room with good air circulation. If the room is poorly ventilated, the gesso may take longer or not dry. Therefore, ensure good air circulation in the room when applying gesso to ensure that it dries evenly and quickly.

Temperature

Gesso dries faster in warm temperatures than in cold temperatures. If the room is too cold, the gesso may take longer or not dry at all. It is best to apply gesso in a room with a temperature of around 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it dries properly.

High or Low Humidity

High humidity can cause gesso to take longer to dry or not dry, while low humidity can cause the gesso to dry too quickly. It is best to apply gesso in a room with a humidity level between 40-60% to ensure it dries properly. 

Thickness

Thick gesso will take longer to dry than thinner layers. Apply gesso in thin, even layers to ensure it dries evenly and quickly. If multiple layers of gesso are needed, it is best to wait for each layer to dry completely before applying the next layer. 

Brand quality

High-quality artist-grade gesso will usually dry faster than lower quality student-grade gesso. Ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label regarding drying time, as this can vary depending on the brand and quality of the gesso.

Drying Times Between Gesso Layers

Depending on the climate and the amount of gesso used, it can take anywhere from a few hours to several days for your layers to fully dry before you can start painting.

Gesso and Acrylics

To prepare a canvas for acrylic painting, let the first layer of gesso dry for approximately an hour until it is no longer cold to the touch. Apply a second coat and let it dry for around 20 minutes, then continue with additional gesso layers with 20-minute intervals in between. At least let the gesso dry overnight before painting with acrylics. Want to speed up acrylic dry time? Read our article on how to dry acrylic paint fast.

When making canvases, applying the first layer of gesso can take up to an hour to dry, even in high humidity. Subsequent layers of gesso dry faster since the canvas is no longer as absorbent, and the moisture in the canvas evaporates out the back and front of the canvas.

This means that when applying a second or more coats of gesso, it will take less time to dry than the first layer.

Once there is a dry layer of gesso on the canvas, a new layer of gesso no longer has immediate contact with the absorbent canvas, which helps to speed up the drying process.

Oil-based Paints and Gesso

To properly prepare a canvas for oil painting, it is recommended to let the gesso dry for a minimum of three days before painting to ensure proper mechanical adhesion of oil paint. Allow one hour of drying time between each layer of acrylic gesso. It is essential to apply size to protect the painting support, such as canvas, from oil damage.

Surface preparation for oil painting is different from acrylic painting. The painting support prepared for oil painting must be sized before painting to stiffen the canvas and protect it from acidic oils, preventing the rotting of the canvas. 

Rabbit skin glue is a traditional size used by old masters and many professional artists, but it is time-consuming. Other products, such as Golden Gac 400, can mimic sizing and help stiffen the canvas and block oils.

GAC 100 and Gloss Meda sizing agents can also be used to prevent support-induced discoloration (SID) of the canvas. Allow each sizing layer to dry clear and touch dry. Dry overnight to form a tight film before applying gesso before oil painting.

To protect oils from seeping through the canvas, it is recommended to apply about 3 to 4 coats of gesso for oil painting. Let the gesso dry for at least three days to ensure proper mechanical adhesion of oil paints. This drying time helps to eliminate excess water that is not favored by oil paints or oil painting solvents.

Gesso Along with Sketching Mediums

Gesso can be used as a base for sketching mediums, such as graphite, charcoal, and pastels. However, the drying time for gesso when used with sketching mediums can vary depending on the type of medium used.

When using graphite or charcoal, gesso dries relatively quickly, and there is no need to wait for a long period before using the sketching medium on top of the gesso layer. 

However, it is recommended to wait for at least 20-30 minutes for the gesso to dry before using graphite or charcoal to prevent the medium from smudging or blending into the gesso layer.

When using pastels, gesso needs to dry completely before using the pastels on top of the gesso layer. This is because pastels are powdery and require a dry, absorbent surface to adhere to. It is recommended to let the gesso layer dry overnight or for at least 24 hours before using pastels on top of it.

Gesso Drying time on different surfaces

The drying time of gesso on different surfaces can vary significantly. Here are some general guidelines for drying time on different surfaces:

How long does Gesso take to dry on wood

Gesso typically takes between two and four hours to completely dry when applied to a wooden surface. This is dependent on the type of wood, amount of gesso used, and the surrounding temperature and humidity. If you apply additional coats of gesso, give more time for each layer to dry.

See also: How long does puffy paint take to dry on fabric?

How long does Gesso take to dry on plastic?

Depending on the type of plastic you seal with gesso, the primer will typically take anywhere from two hours to overnight to completely dry. As with wood, the amount of gesso used and ambient temperature and humidity can affect drying times. 

How long does Gesso take to dry on clay? 

Gesso will usually take up to four hours to completely dry when applied on a clay surface. Again, this amount of time is dependent on the amount of gesso used, as well as the ambient temperature and humidity. For multiple coats of gesso, allow for adequate time between applications to ensure that each layer has properly dried.

How long does Gesso take to dry on cardboard? 

Gesso lasts between two to four hours to completely dry when applied on a cardboard surface. This is dependent on the type of cardboard, the amount of gesso used, and surrounding temperature and humidity.

How to Apply Gesso

Items you need:

• White acrylic paint
• White craft glue
• Water
• Talcum powder or calcium carbonate

Step-by-step procedure

1. Prepare your work surface: Cover your work surface with a drop cloth or newspaper to protect it from gesso spills. This will prevent any accidental messes and keep your workspace clean.

2. Clean the surface: Make sure the surface you plan to gesso is clean and free of any dust, debris, or oils. You can wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth or use a gentle cleaner if needed. This will ensure that the gesso adheres properly to the surface and doesn’t get mixed with any other particles.

3. Shake the gesso: Before opening the gesso container, give it a good shake to ensure the contents are well-mixed. This will help the gesso apply evenly and prevent any clumps or separation.

4. Apply the gesso: Using a gesso brush or foam roller, apply a thin layer of gesso to the surface. Work in long, even strokes, applying the gesso in the same direction each time. Be sure to cover the entire surface evenly. This will create a smooth, consistent base for your painting. Alternatively, you can use the spray method for application. Using a gesso spray paint saves time and eliminates brush strokes.

5. Sand between coats: If you plan to apply multiple coats of gesso, lightly sand the surface between coats to ensure a smooth finish. Use fine-grit sandpaper (around 220-320 grit) and lightly sand in a circular motion. This will create a surface that is easy to work with and ensures the gesso is applied evenly.

6. Apply additional coats: Apply additional coats of gesso as needed, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. For best results, apply two to three coats of gesso, allowing each coat to dry for at least one hour. This will create a stable and smooth surface for your painting.

Clean up: Once you have applied the desired number of coats and the gesso has dried completely, clean your brush or roller with warm water and soap. This will ensure that your tools are clean and ready for use in future projects.

Applying Gesso Coats to Different Surfaces

The number of coats of gesso is dependent on the type of surface. This section discusses different surfaces and the number of coats required: 

How Many Coats of Gesso Should I Use for an Oil Paint?

When preparing a canvas for oil painting, it is recommended to apply at least three to four coats of gesso. This will create a stable and absorbent surface for the oil paint to adhere to. 

However, the number of coats needed can vary depending on the quality of the canvas and the desired level of absorbency. 

If you are working with a high-quality canvas or prefer less absorbency in your painting surface, you may need to apply fewer coats of gesso. It is also important to allow each layer of gesso to dry completely before applying the next layer.

How Many Coats of Gesso for Acrylic Painting?

When preparing a canvas for acrylic painting, apply at least two to three coats of gesso. This will create a stable and absorbent surface for the acrylic paint to adhere to. However, the number of coats needed can vary depending on the quality of the canvas and the desired level of absorbency. 

If you are working with a high-quality canvas or prefer less absorbency in your painting surface, you may need to apply fewer coats of gesso. It is also important to allow each layer of gesso to dry completely before applying the next layer.

How Many Coats of Gesso Should I Use for a Drawing?

When using gesso as a base for drawing mediums, such as graphite, charcoal, or pastels, it is recommended to apply at least one to two coats of gesso. This will create a stable and absorbent surface for the drawing medium to adhere to. However, the number of coats needed can vary depending on the type of drawing medium used and the desired level of absorbency. If you are working with a particularly powdery or soft drawing medium, such as pastels, you may need to apply more coats of gesso to ensure a stable surface. It is also important to allow each layer of gesso to dry completely before using the drawing medium.

Tips to Dry Gesso Quickly

1. Apply thin layers of gesso rather than thick layers to reduce the drying time.
2. Make sure the room temperature is warm (around 70°F or 21°C) as cooler temperatures can slow down the drying process.
3. Increase air circulation in the room by opening windows or using a fan to help the gesso dry faster.
4. Keep humidity levels low (around 50% or lower), as higher humidity can cause the gesso to dry slower.
5. Use a heat lamp or hair dryer on the lowest setting to gently speed the drying process.
6. Sand lightly between gesso coats to help them dry faster and create a smooth surface.
7. Use a drying rack to allow air to circulate around the canvas and speed up the drying process.
8. Place the gessoed canvas in direct sunlight to help dry the gesso faster. However, monitor the canvas as direct sunlight can cause the canvas to warp or fade over time.
9. Consider using gesso additives such as drying agents or acrylic polymer mediums to speed up drying.
10. Use a microwave to dry small areas of gessoed canvas quickly. However, be cautious when using this method as it can cause the canvas to warp or scorch.

Also read: How to Make Spray Paint Dry Faster?

The Best Gesso for Acrylic Painting

Choosing the right gesso for your acrylic paintings is crucial to achieving the desired result. With various options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which one to choose. 

The best gesso for acrylic painting should provide a stable and absorbent surface, dry quickly, and apply easily. It should also be compatible with a range of painting surfaces and pigments. 

Below are some of the best gessos for acrylic painting you can go for to make your art.

1. U.S. Art Supply White Gesso Acrylic Medium

U.S. Art Supply White Gesso Acrylic is a high-quality product that is lightweight and non-toxic, making it ideal for artists who are looking for a safe and easy-to-use gesso. 

This gesso dries to a water-resistant, permanent and flexible finish after drying, ensuring that the painting surface remains stable over time.

One of the main benefits of this gesso is that it is intermixable with other pigments or acrylic paints to create a range of customized colored grounds.

This feature allows artists to create unique textures and color effects on their painting surface. The gesso has a smooth and creamy consistency, making it easy to apply and providing excellent coverage in one coat.

The U.S. Art Supply White Gesso Acrylic is a superior product that provides artists with a flexible and highly pigmented gesso that is perfect for preparing painting surfaces for both acrylic and oil paint.

Also, this gesso dries quickly and has a nice consistency, making it a go-to choice for artists who demand high-quality materials for their art.

2. MONT MARTE Black Gesso

MONT MARTE Black Gesso is a high-quality product that prepares painting surfaces for acrylic and oil paint. This gesso provides a deep black matte finish with an excellent painting base. 

In addition, the gesso is water-based, which makes it easy to clean up and work with, but it is also permanent and flexible after drying, ensuring that your painting surface remains stable over time.

One of the most significant benefits of MONT MARTE Black Gesso is that it is intermixable with other pigments or acrylic paints to create a range of customized colored grounds. This feature allows artists to create unique textures and color effects on their painting surface.

Overall, MONT MARTE Black Gesso is an excellent product that provides a stable and versatile painting surface that can be used with various mediums.

Besides, mont marte is a thick gesso that offers excellent coverage in just one coat. I use it primarily when I am re-using canvases that were already. 

3. Liquitex Professional Gesso Surface Prep Medium

Liquitex Professional Gesso Surface Prep Medium is a high-quality product that is designed to provide artists with a stable and absorbent painting surface for both acrylic and oil paint. 

This gesso is water-based, making it easy to use and clean up, and it dries to a matte finish that provides excellent tooth for paint adhesion.

One of the main benefits of this gesso is that it is highly versatile and can be used on a wide range of surfaces, including canvas, paper, wood, and more.

It is also intermixable with other pigments or acrylic paints to create a range of customized colored grounds, allowing artists to create unique textures and color effects on their painting surface.

Liquitex Professional Gesso Surface Prep Medium is highly pigmented, providing excellent coverage in one coat. The gesso has a smooth and creamy consistency, making it easy to apply and providing an even surface for paint application.

Overall, this gesso is an excellent choice for artists who demand high-quality materials for their art and need a reliable surface prep medium for their paintings.

How to Make Gesso Yourself

Making your own gesso at home is an affordable and easy way to create a primer that can be customized to your specific needs. Here are the steps to homemade clear gesso recipe:

Step 1: Gather the Materials

The materials required to make gesso include calcium carbonate, white glue, water, and white acrylic paint.

You will also need measuring cups and spoons, a mixing bowl, a whisk or spoon, and a clean container with a lid to store the gesso.

Step 2: Measure the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, measure 4 tablespoons of calcium carbonate and add 2 tablespoons of white glue. 

Then, gradually add 1 cup of water to the mixture while whisking or stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Once the mixture is smooth, add 2 tablespoons of white acrylic paint and mix well.

Step 3: Adjust the Consistency

The consistency of gesso can be adjusted by adding more or less water. For a thicker consistency, add less water, and for a thinner consistency, add more water. 

However, keep in mind that a thicker gesso layer may require longer drying time.

Step 4: Store the Gesso

Pour the gesso mixture into a clean container with a lid and store it in a cool, dry place. The gesso can be stored for up to a month if kept airtight.

Step 5: Apply the Gesso

Before applying the gesso, make sure the surface is clean and dry. Apply the gesso using a brush or roller, starting from the center of the surface and working your way outwards. 

Apply thin layers of gesso, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. Sand the surface lightly between layers for a smoother finish.

Step 6: Use the Surface

Once the gesso is completely dry, the surface is ready to paint with acrylic or oil paints. Gesso can also be used to prime a variety of surfaces such as canvas, wood, paper, and more.

Read also: How long does mod podge take to dry on wood?

FAQs

How do I apply gesso smoothly?

To apply gesso smoothly, use a gesso brush or foam roller, and work in long, even strokes, applying the gesso in the same direction each time. It is also important to apply thin layers of gesso, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next.

Can I paint on wet Gesso?

No, it is not recommended to paint on wet gesso as it can result in a poor adhesion of paint and an uneven surface. Allow each layer of gesso to dry completely before applying the next layer or painting on top of the gesso. If you try to paint on wet gesso, your brushstrokes will also become distorted and uneven.

How many gesso coats are enough?

Aapply at least two to three coats of gesso for acrylic painting and three to four coats for oil painting. However, the number of coats needed can vary depending on the quality of the canvas and the desired level of absorbency.

How to gesso a canvas?

Gesso a canvas by starting with a clean and dust-free canvas. Then, stir the gesso thoroughly so that it has an even consistency. Apply the gesso in one direction across your canvas using a wide, flat brush. Once you’ve covered the entire surface, go back over it in a perpendicular direction to ensure that it is applied smoothly and evenly.

How long should Gesso dry before painting with acrylics?

It is recommended to let the gesso dry for at least one hour before painting with acrylics. However, the drying time can vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and thickness of the gesso layer.

Should I apply Gesso to a primed canvas?

No, you should not apply gesso to a primed canvas as the primer is already providing an even surface for painting. However, if you have unprimed canvas, then it’ a good idea to apply gesso before you start painting with acrylics.

Does Gesso dry clear?

Gesso dries to a matte finish and is not completely clear. However, some brands may dry clearer than others. It is important to choose a high-quality gesso that will dry evenly and not affect the final appearance of the painting.

How long does Rustoleum take to dry?

Rustoleum paint dry time varies depending on factors like product type, environmental conditions, and surface. Typically, it becomes touch dry within 2-4 hours. However, for full curing and maximum durability, wait approximately 24-48 hours. Adhering to recommended drying times ensures a successful and long-lasting paint job.

Do Not Paint Over Wet Surfaces; know When Gesso is Dry

As an artist, you must know how to use gesso when painting on canvas properly. Painting over a wet surface can cause adverse effects, such as cracking and mold, which can significantly damage artwork. We have seen how long gesso takes to dry before painting commences. 

The answer on how long gesso takes to dry depends on various factors such as the thickness of the application and climate control – what might take three hours in Arizona could take five hours in Florida.  

Remember that experimentation is key, and practice makes perfect when trying to gauge just how long until your project can begin.