Q: Can I varnish my oil painting as soon as it is dry to the
touch? I use a medium made of Damar medium, linseed oil, and
turpentine, and have finished a commission that needs to go to the
client in one week. Would it be better to not varnish?
A: An oil painting takes six months to one year to fully dry.
You should apply a final layer of varnish only after the painting dries
completely.