An oil painting of any sort needs to dry for a considerable time after it is complete and before the final layer of varnish is applied. The time depends on the thickness of the paint applied and the types of mediums used, as oil paint dries through oxidation rather than evaporation. A painting can take up to 6 months to completely dry.

Depending on the needs of the client, Elizabeth Whelan can apply a thin layer of matte damar varnish at the completion of the painting in order to deliver the portrait in a timely manner. 

She recommends waiting 2-3 weeks after receipt of the painting before taking it to the framer, to ensure that the surface is dry to the touch.