I personally would only use the aforementioned paper bag method to cure my buds. First, cut 'em down and let them air dry in a well-ventilated room, either hanging upside down on a string or sitting atop a window screen. Depending on the relative humidity, I might dry anywhere from 4 days to 2 weeks. Once the nugs feel dry to the touch but still abnormally heavy, place them in a brown paper bag and close it up. At least once (or twice) per day, remove the buds for a few seconds and then close them up again. As they start to smell and burn more properly, you can lesson the amount of times you open the bag. Once your satisfied, vacuum seal your finished product or can it. Depending on how long you paper-bagged the marijuana, you may decide to continually open the can or sealed baggy just to make sure you don't develop a mold problem. Store it away from sunlight and in a cool environment. Enjoy!
It is hard to give time estimations relating to the curing and drying process. I have had certain strains of marijuana dry out overnight and certain strains of marijuana develop mold (seemingly) overnight.