What is the shine phase in wet-on-wet painting?

The shine phase is when the paper surface has a visible sheen of water. During this phase, paint applied will spread and blend freely with soft edges. This is the best time for large washes and blending. It typically lasts 2-5 minutes depending on conditions.

What happens in the damp phase?

After the shine disappears, the paper is still damp but paint will spread less. Edges will be softer than dry paper but more controlled than the shine phase. This is good for adding details that should blend slightly. Working during the transition between shine and damp often causes blooms.

Does paper weight affect working time?

Yes, significantly. Heavier paper (425-640 gsm) absorbs and holds more water, giving a longer working window. Light paper (185 gsm) dries much faster and may buckle. 300 gsm is the standard for most watercolour work.

How does humidity affect drying?

Higher humidity slows drying and extends your working window. On a dry day (30% RH) the working time may halve compared to a humid day (70% RH). In very humid conditions, you may need to help drying with a hair dryer between layers.

ArtCalcs

Wet-on-Wet Timing Calculator \u2014 Working Time Windows

Calculate working time windows for wet-on-wet watercolour technique based on paper weight, humidity and temperature.

Paper WeightHeavier paper holds more water

Paper SizeLarger paper dries slower in the centre

Humidity

Relative humidity of your workspace

Temperature

Room or outdoor temperature

How We Calculate This

This calculator estimates the working time windows for wet-on-wet watercolour technique by modelling how paper weight, humidity, temperature and pre-wetting method affect drying rates.

How it works

Base working times for the shine and damp phases are adjusted by factors for paper weight, humidity, temperature, paper size and pre-wetting method. Heavier paper, higher humidity and lower temperature all extend working time.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.