You’ve just unboxed your brand-new Paint by Numbers kit. You’ve unrolled the canvas, inspected the brushes, and lined up those satisfying little plastic pots of vibrant color.
But as you dip your brush in for that very first stroke, you might find yourself wondering: What exactly is inside these tiny containers?
Whether you are a seasoned artist or a complete beginner picking up a brush for the first time, understanding the medium you are working with is the secret to getting the best possible results.
Here is everything you need to know about the paint in your Paint With Number kits, why it’s chosen, and how to make the most of it.
The Gold Standard: Acrylic Paint
Let’s cut right to the chase: The paint used in almost all high-quality Paint by Numbers kits is acrylic paint.
While the art world is full of beautiful mediums—like oils, watercolors, and gouache—acrylic is the undisputed champion of the Paint by Numbers universe.
And it isn't just by coincidence; acrylic paint possesses a specific set of "superpowers" that make it absolutely perfect for this craft.
Why Acrylic is the Perfect Match for Paint by Numbers
1. It Dries Lightning-Fast
If you've ever painted with oils, you know it can take days (or even weeks!) for a single layer to dry. Acrylic paint, on the other hand, dries in a matter of minutes.
This fast drying time is crucial for Paint by Numbers because it allows you to rest your hand on areas you’ve just painted without worrying about smudging your beautiful work. You can seamlessly move from one section of the canvas to another.
2. High Opacity (It Hides the Numbers!)
The number one job of PBN paint is to completely cover the printed lines and numbers on the canvas. Because acrylic paint is naturally opaque and highly pigmented, it provides excellent coverage.
While lighter colors (like pale yellows or whites) might occasionally need a second coat, a good quality acrylic will generally hide the blueprint underneath with a single, smooth stroke.
3. It is Water-Soluble (Zero Mess)
Nobody wants to deal with toxic chemical solvents like turpentine just to clean their brushes. Because acrylic paint is water-based, cleanup is incredibly easy.
All you need is a cup of warm water and a little bit of mild soap to wash your brushes. Plus, if you accidentally drop a speck of paint on your table, a damp cloth will wipe it right up before it dries.
4. Vibrant, Lasting Colors
Acrylics are famous for their bold, vibrant pigments. Once acrylic paint dries, it becomes flexible and water-resistant.
This means your finished animal portraits or sweeping landscapes won't fade or crack easily over time, ensuring your masterpiece looks fresh for years to come.
Why Not Oil or Watercolor?
It’s a fair question!
- Watercolors are beautiful, but they are transparent by nature. If you used watercolor on a PBN canvas, the numbers and lines would show right through the paint.
- Oils offer incredible blending capabilities, but their incredibly slow drying time and requirement for harsh chemical solvents make them messy and frustrating for a relaxing, structured hobby like Paint by Numbers.
Pro Tips for Handling Your Acrylic Paints
Because acrylic paint dries quickly, it does require a little bit of care to keep it in perfect painting condition. Here are three golden rules from the team at Paint With Number:
- The "One-at-a-Time" Rule: Only open the lid of the specific color you are currently using. Leaving the little pots open to the air will cause the paint to dry out and thicken.
- The Magic Drop of Water: If you find that your paint is a little too thick to spread smoothly, don't panic! Simply add a single drop of warm water (or an acrylic flow improver) into the pot and stir it thoroughly with a toothpick. This will restore its buttery consistency.
- Close Them Tightly: When you are done painting for the day, press firmly on the lids until you hear a "click." An airtight seal will keep your paints fresh for months.
Ready to Start Painting?
Now that you know exactly what you are working with, it’s time to put paint to canvas. Acrylic paint is forgiving, brilliant, and incredibly fun to use.
If you are ready to experience the satisfying glide of fresh acrylics, browse our latest collection of premium kits at Paint With Number and find your next creative project today!
