If you've ever looked at a beautiful painting and thought to yourself, "I wish I could paint that," then a paint by numbers kit might be the answer.
These kits allow anyone - from complete beginners to seasoned hobbyists - to create detailed works without years of training.
But just how easy is it to use a paint by numbers kit? In this complete guide, we'll explore what paint by numbers is, why it's great for beginners, and how to get started with confidence.
What Exactly Is Paint by Numbers?
Paint by numbers is a creative activity that allows individuals to produce detailed artwork by following a pre-designed template. Each canvas comes with a printed outline of an image divided into numbered sections.
Each number corresponds to a specific paint color, which is included in the kit. By matching numbers to colors and filling them in, you gradually reveal a complete, vibrant painting.
This method, originally developed in the 1950s, has recently made a huge comeback as a relaxing, screen-free hobby and a form of mindful creativity.
Whether you’re painting a serene landscape, a beloved pet, or an abstract masterpiece, paint by numbers makes it accessible.
Why Paint by Numbers Is Suitable for Beginners
Paint by Numbers is an ideal entry point for anyone new to painting. With its structured, guided format, it allows beginners to create beautiful artwork without feeling overwhelmed.
Here’s why Paint by Numbers kits are such a great fit for first-time painters:
Simple and Easy to Follow
Each kit includes a pre-printed canvas divided into numbered sections, with each number corresponding to a specific acrylic paint color.
This clear, step-by-step approach removes the guesswork, letting you focus on the fun and fulfillment of painting.
No Experience Required
You don’t need any prior experience or artistic background. Paint by Numbers kits are designed to be beginner-friendly, offering all the materials—canvas, paints, brushes, and instructions—you need to get started.
Whether you’re completely new or just rusty, you'll find the process intuitive and accessible.
Builds Confidence
Watching your artwork come to life, one section at a time, is incredibly rewarding. Completing a piece boosts confidence in your abilities and may even spark interest in exploring more advanced painting techniques later on.
Relaxing and Stress-Free
The structured nature of Paint by Numbers is soothing, making it a great way to unwind. With no pressure to decide colors or worry about mistakes, you can simply follow the numbers and enjoy the meditative rhythm of painting.
Affordable and Convenient
Most kits are reasonably priced and come with everything you need:
- Pre-printed canvas
- Acrylic paints in numbered pots
- Brushes
- Easy-to-follow instructions
This convenience is perfect for beginners who don’t want to invest heavily in art supplies right away.
Wide Range of Designs
From simple patterns to intricate scenes, there’s a Paint by Numbers kit for everyone. Beginners can start with larger sections and fewer colors, then gradually challenge themselves with more complex designs as their skills improve.
How Does Paint by Numbers Work?
Each kit typically includes: A pre-printed canvas with a detailed design, numbered paint pots, a set of brushes in various sizes, and a reference sheet or image of the final result.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Set Up: Lay your canvas flat and choose a clean, well-lit workspace.
- Organize Your Materials: Arrange paints, brushes, and a water cup for cleaning brushes.
- Start Painting: Begin with either the largest or smallest number area, depending on your preference.
- Follow the Numbers: Match the paint pot numbers with the canvas numbers.
- Let It Dry: Allow sections to dry before layering or moving the canvas.
- Optional Framing: Once completed, you can frame your artwork and display it proudly.
Things You Need for Paint by Numbers
Creating a painting becomes remarkably simple once you have everything you need. While traditional painting often requires gathering multiple expensive supplies, Paint by Numbers kits offer a more convenient alternative.
One of their greatest advantages is that they come fully equipped with everything from brushes to mounting accessories—even tools to help you hang your artwork once it’s done.
Here’s what you can expect in a typical paint-by-numbers kit:
Brushes
Paint by Numbers designs include areas of varying sizes and intricate details, so having the right brush is essential.
Most kits include at least three brushes:
- A fine-tip brush for precision and small spaces
- A medium brush for general use
- A wide brush for large background areas
Before diving into your painting, take a few minutes to get familiar with each brush. Practice some strokes on a scrap surface to get a feel for how they perform.
Canvas
The canvas is sized to match the artwork and usually comes in one of two formats:
- Pre-mounted on a wooden frame, ready to paint and display
- Rolled canvas, which can be framed after completion
- Some kits also offer DIY wooden frames, allowing you to stretch and mount your completed painting yourself. Choose the option that best fits your space and style.
Paints
Your kit will include small, numbered pots of acrylic paint—each corresponding to a section of the canvas. These paints are typically pre-mixed and ready to use. For designs that include unique shades, some light mixing may be required.
Pro tip: Always close the lids tightly after each use to prevent the paints from drying out.
Due to the small size of the pots, they can lose moisture quickly if left open.
Color Chart
A color chart serves as your painting roadmap. It clearly shows which numbered sections match which paint pots, helping you stay organised and accurate throughout your project.
It’s especially useful for:
- Double-checking color placement
- Mixing colors when needed
- Correcting any errors or confusion on the canvas
- The chart ensures your final painting matches the intended design beautifully.
- Paper Copy & Instruction Manual
In addition to the canvas, most kits provide:
- A printed paper copy of the artwork as a visual reference
- An instruction manual with tips on technique, color usage, and troubleshooting
These resources are incredibly helpful—especially for beginners—as they offer step-by-step guidance and support to make your painting experience smooth and enjoyable.
Wall Hanging Kit
Once your artwork is complete, you’ll likely want to display it. Many kits include a wall hanging kit, which may contain:
- Screws, hooks, and bolts
- Mounting recommendations
- Optional frame options (assembled or DIY)
This makes it easy to showcase your finished masterpiece proudly—right out of the box, with minimal extra effort.
What Kind of Paint Is Used?
Each paint-by-numbers kit comes with a set of individually sealed paint cans, each containing the specific color you need to complete your work.
These cans are usually generously sized—not only enough to complete your work, but also enough to handle minor mistakes or touch-ups along the way.
Most kits use pre-mixed acrylic paints, especially in commonly used hues. However, some premium kits may require you to mix certain colors by hand.
In these cases, detailed instructions will be provided with the kit detailing the exact amount of each color to use.
For beginners, using pre-mixed paints is often the best option, ensuring accurate colors and a smoother painting experience.
If you need or desire to mix paint, it’s best to test it on a separate surface to ensure an even mix before applying it to your canvas.
The most commonly used paint in paint-by-numbers kits is acrylic paint for the following reasons:
- Quick-drying: helps you avoid smudging and finish faster
- Water-soluble: brushes and tools can be easily cleaned with just water
- High color rendering: provides vivid, opaque color coverage
- User-friendly: great for beginners due to its ease of use
While some advanced kits may use oil-based paints to achieve different effects, acrylic paint is still the best choice for beginners due to its ease of use and quick drying properties.
Tips for a Smooth Painting Session
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your skills, these tips will help you get the most out of your Paint by Numbers kit and ensure a clean, polished final result.
1. Work Methodically
To prevent smudging, it’s best to work from the top of the canvas downward, or from one side to the other. This keeps your hand from resting on wet paint.
For extra precision, consider using a leaning bridge—a tool that lets your hand hover above the canvas while painting. Always match each numbered section with its corresponding paint color to stay organized.
2. Thin Thick Paints
If the paint feels too thick or gloopy, add a drop or two of water to thin it out. Thinned paint spreads more evenly and reduces brush marks or clumping. Be careful not to add too much water—start small and test on a separate surface first.
3. Add Depth with Layers and Blending
Though Paint by Numbers is designed to be simple, you can enhance your artwork by blending adjacent colors or adding extra layers for depth and shading. Be sure to let each layer fully dry before applying the next to avoid muddy colors.
4. Hide Visible Numbers with a White Pencil
If numbers or outlines show through lighter paint colors, lightly trace over them with a white colored pencil before painting. This helps mask the lines, allowing for a cleaner and more professional-looking finish.
5. Use a Magnifying Glass for Fine Details
Small and intricate areas can be challenging to fill precisely. A magnifying glass or headlamp with magnification can help you see the fine details more clearly, ensuring accurate and neat brushwork.
6. Upgrade Your Brushes
The brushes included in most kits are serviceable but basic. For better control and smoother application, consider investing in a set of high-quality detail brushes.
A good brush can make a significant difference in the sharpness of your lines and the overall finish.
7. Keep Your Brushes Clean
Clean your brush thoroughly between colors by rinsing it in water and drying with a paper towel or cloth. This prevents unintended color mixing and keeps your painting looking crisp and clean.
8. Take Breaks to Avoid Fatigue
While painting is relaxing, it’s important to take regular breaks. Step away from your work to rest your eyes and hands, and take a moment to view your progress from a distance—this gives you a fresh perspective and helps you spot any areas that need adjustment.
9. Ensure Proper Lighting
Good lighting is essential for seeing true paint colors and fine details. Natural daylight is ideal, but if that’s not available, use a bright, white LED lamp to illuminate your workspace. Avoid warm or dim lighting, as it can distort colors and cause eye strain.
Scientifically Proven Benefits of Doing Paint by Numbers
One of the most exciting things about digital painting is watching the picture evolve. At first, the canvas may seem dull or fragmented, but as you fill in each numbered area, a vibrant, detailed picture emerges.
The transformation from blank canvas to final masterpiece is the magic of digital painting, and it’s what makes it both fascinating and evocative.
Reduces Stress and Promotes Relaxation
Research shows that creative activities like digital painting can significantly reduce stress levels. Focusing on coloring shapes and following simple instructions can have a calming, meditation-like effect.
By immersing yourself in the painting process, you can temporarily escape from your daily worries and enjoy a much-needed mental reset.
Improves Focus
Participating in digital painting exercises your brain, which can improve focus and sustained attention.
Even spending just 30 minutes a day painting can train your brain to focus on one task at a time, a skill that is increasingly valuable in today’s fast-paced, distraction-filled world.
Mindfulness Practice
Digital painting is a form of mindfulness in itself. As you focus on each shape and brushstroke, your awareness is rooted in the present moment.
This state of focused calm helps reduce negative thinking, relieve anxiety, and promote emotional balance—much like meditation.
Makes a Great Gift or Home Decor
Paint by numbers kits make thoughtful, personalized gifts—whether you’re giving a complete work or a kit on its own.
They’re also an affordable way to create professional wall art that adds a personal touch to your home decor without the high cost of purchasing an original painting.
Builds Artistic Skills
In addition to relaxing, painting by numbers is a powerful tool for building artistic skills. Beginners can benefit from a guided structure, while experienced painters can experiment with techniques like blending, shading, and layering.
Over time, you’ll build confidence in brush control, color mixing, and composition techniques while gaining a deeper understanding of the creative process.
Improves Mood and Mental Health
Creative expression through painting has been shown to improve mood. The sense of accomplishment that comes from completing a painting can lift spirits, boost self-esteem, and provide a lasting sense of satisfaction.
This simple hobby can significantly improve emotional health and overall well-being.
Promotes Social Connections
Paint by numbers can also be a social activity that encourages people to connect and share experiences.
Whether you paint with friends and family, participate in a group activity, or join an online paint-by-numbers community, this creative pastime connects people in collaborative and fulfilling ways.
Why Choose paintwithnumber?
At paintwithnumber, we make it even easier to start your painting journey:
Premium Quality Kits: Our canvases are finely printed, and our paints are rich and smooth.
Wide Design Selection: From nature scenes to modern art, there’s something for every style.
Custom Kits: Turn your pet or loved one’s photo into a personal masterpiece.
Beginner-Friendly Support: We offer tips, video guides, and customer service for all skill levels.
Fast & Reliable Shipping: Get your creative inspiration delivered quickly and safely.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing hobby, a thoughtful gift, or a new form of artistic expression, PaintWithNumber is your go-to destination.
Conclusion
Paint by Numbers is an enjoyable and accessible hobby that offers a wide range of benefits—from boosting mental well-being and reducing stress to improving fine motor skills and focus.
Whether you're just starting out or already have some artistic experience, this guide will walk you through essential techniques, recommended materials, and practical tips for overcoming common challenges.
Simply choose a Paint by Numbers kit, bring your artwork to life step by step, and take pride in displaying your finished masterpiece on your wall!
