When plastering your walls, patience is key to achieving a professional and long-lasting paint finish. Based on my experience and several expert guidelines, freshly plastered walls should ideally dry for at least 7 days before you consider painting. However, the actual drying time can extend up to 28 days depending on variables like wall thickness, ambient humidity, temperature, and ventilation. I once rushed the painting process and painted my walls after only a couple of days, which led to visible paint cracking and peeling within weeks. Since then, I’ve learned to test for dryness by feeling the wall surface for any residual dampness and making sure it’s completely chalk-free, which is a good indicator that it's ready. Maintaining good airflow by opening windows and using fans can speed up the drying process but never rush it. Remember that the plaster needs to cure fully, not just dry on the surface. Waiting the full recommended time helps prevent moisture from being trapped beneath the paint layer, which causes damage over time. Always check the weather forecast when planning your renovation schedule because high humidity or cold temperatures prolong drying. Taking care of this step ensures your paint job lasts longer, looks better, and saves you from costly repairs down the line.