This is more often caused through improper application of the undercoats than through any fault of the paint.

Paint, varnish, or a similar product applied over a glossy surface or a surface which is not hard dry is much more likely to remain tacky than if applied over a thoroughly dry, half flat or flat surface.

Some paint pigments are natural dryers, while others are non-dryers. The non-drying pigments, when used in painting, if not properly prepared and applied over a suitable surface, are very apt to dry tacky and remain so.

Varnish added to oil paint will cause the paint to remain tacky. Colors in oil mixed with varnish will not harden, but soften under exposure to heat.

Always prime a building before the plasterer commences his work.

Never second or third coat a building while the plaster is drying out. A building should never be tightly closed while the plaster is drying out.