Blog
How to Do Paint by Numbers: Complete Beginner’s Guide
Nov
You don’t need to be an artist to paint beautifully. With paint by numbers, anyone can create stunning artwork while enjoying a calming, mindful experience. This beginner-friendly approach to art breaks down complex paintings into manageable sections, guiding you through each step with confidence.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing hobby, a creative outlet, or a way to decorate your home with personal artwork, paint by numbers offers the perfect balance of guidance and creativity. The joy of watching your canvas transform and the pride of completing your own masterpiece are experiences everyone deserves.
What You Need to Get Started with Paint by Numbers
Before diving into your artistic journey, let’s make sure you have everything you need. A quality paint by numbers kit contains all the essentials, but understanding each component will help you get the most out of your experience.
What’s Included in a Typical Kit
- Pre-printed numbered canvas (usually cotton blend)
- Set of acrylic paints with numbers matching the canvas
- Brushes in various sizes (typically 3 brushes)
- Reference sheet showing the completed image
- Instructions for getting started
- Some kits include a hanging kit for displaying your finished work
Quality kits from paintbynumber.io ensure you have everything needed to create a beautiful finished piece, with premium materials that make the process more enjoyable.
Additional Items to Prepare
- A cup or jar of clean water for rinsing brushes
- Paper towels or cloth for drying brushes
- Good lighting (natural light or a desk lamp)
- A flat, stable surface to work on
- Optional: easel for more comfortable painting
- Optional: magnifying glass for tiny sections
Setting up your workspace properly before you begin will make your painting experience much more enjoyable and help you achieve better results.
Step-by-Step: How to Do Paint by Numbers Well
Following these proven steps will help you create a beautiful painting while enjoying the process. Remember that paint by numbers is as much about the journey as it is about the final artwork.
Organize Your Paints and Materials
Before applying the first brushstroke, take time to arrange your paints in numerical order. Open only the colors you plan to use immediately to prevent them from drying out. Check your canvas against the reference sheet to familiarize yourself with the overall design.
Start from the Top and Work Downward
To avoid smudging your work, begin at the top of your canvas and gradually move downward. If you’re right-handed, work from left to right; if left-handed, work from right to left. This technique prevents your hand from resting on freshly painted areas.
Paint One Color at a Time
For efficiency, complete all areas of one color before moving to the next. This approach minimizes the need to clean your brush and reduces the risk of paints drying out. Start with darker colors that often form the background and create an outline of your image.
Use Proper Brush Technique
Hold your brush near the middle (not the very end) for better control. Apply paint with the tip of the brush using even, consistent strokes. For tiny areas, use your smallest brush and a steady hand. Don’t overload your brush with paint—a little goes a long way.
Keep Your Brushes Clean
Rinse your brush thoroughly between colors by swirling it in water and wiping on a paper towel. Repeat until no color remains. This prevents color mixing and extends the life of your brushes. Clean brushes produce cleaner, more vibrant paintings.
Take Regular Breaks
Paint by numbers is meant to be relaxing. Take breaks every 30-60 minutes to rest your eyes and stretch. This mindful approach enhances enjoyment and prevents fatigue. Remember, it’s not a race—many enthusiasts spend weeks completing a single painting.
Ready to Start Your Artistic Journey?
Explore our collection of premium paint by numbers kits designed specifically for beginners. Each kit includes everything you need to create a beautiful piece of art.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Doing Paint by Numbers
Even experienced painters make mistakes sometimes. Being aware of these common pitfalls will help you achieve better results and enjoy the process more.
Best Practices
- Working in a well-lit area
- Closing paint pots immediately after use
- Allowing sections to dry completely before painting adjacent areas
- Using the appropriate brush size for each section
- Taking your time and enjoying the process
Common Mistakes
- Rushing through sections and painting outside the lines
- Leaving paint pots open, causing them to dry out
- Using dirty brushes that mix colors unintentionally
- Working in poor lighting where numbers are hard to see
- Applying too much paint that can seep through the canvas
Remember: Perfection isn’t the goal—expression is. If you make a mistake, let the paint dry completely, then apply the correct color over it. Most minor errors won’t be noticeable in the finished piece.
Recommended Paint by Number Kits for Beginners
Finding the right kit for your first paint by numbers experience can make all the difference. These carefully selected kits from paintbynumber.io offer the perfect balance of challenge and satisfaction for beginners.
Poodle Paint by Numbers Kit
This adorable poodle portrait features larger sections and fewer color changes, making it perfect for first-time painters. The charming design will look wonderful in any room.
Epic Samurai Warrior Kit
Bring this powerful warrior to life with bold colors and dramatic contrasts. While slightly more detailed than beginner kits, the clear sections make it accessible for motivated newcomers.
Winter Lantern Journey Kit
This peaceful winter scene features gentle color transitions and clearly defined areas, making it an ideal first project. The calming blues and whites create a soothing painting experience.
Funny Duck Bathroom Art Kit
Add a touch of whimsy to your bathroom with this charming duck scene. The simple design and cheerful colors make this an enjoyable project for painters of all ages.
French Bulldog Paint by Numbers Kit
Capture the charm of this beloved breed with a kit designed for success. The well-defined sections and intuitive color placement make this perfect for dog lovers new to painting.
Retro Car Scene Kit
Travel back in time with this nostalgic automobile scene. While it offers more detail than some beginner kits, the clear color divisions make it accessible for patient newcomers.
Find Your Perfect Paint by Numbers Kit
Browse our full collection of paint by numbers kits for all skill levels and interests. From landscapes to animals, abstract designs to famous artworks—there’s something for everyone.
Advanced Paint by Numbers Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics, these techniques can help elevate your paint by numbers artwork to the next level. While optional, these approaches can create more professional-looking results.
Blending Colors for Smoother Transitions
Instead of creating hard edges between colors, try blending where sections meet. While the paint is still wet, use a clean, slightly damp brush to gently blur the line between colors. This creates a more natural, professional look, especially in landscapes and portraits.
Using Clear Gesso for Better Paint Adhesion
Applying a thin layer of clear gesso before painting can improve paint adhesion and create a more textured surface. This makes the canvas easier to work with while preserving the visibility of numbers and lines. Allow the gesso to dry completely before beginning to paint.
For areas where numbers show through thin paint, try applying a second coat after the first layer dries completely. This builds opacity while maintaining the smooth finish of your artwork.
“Don’t be afraid to make the paint by numbers kit your own. Small personal touches and techniques can transform a standard kit into a truly unique piece of art.”
After You Finish: Protecting and Displaying Your Artwork
Completing your paint by numbers masterpiece is just the beginning. Proper finishing and display will preserve your artwork and showcase your achievement.
Sealing Your Finished Painting
- Allow your painting to dry completely (at least 24 hours)
- Apply a thin coat of acrylic varnish with a wide, soft brush
- Choose matte, satin, or glossy finish based on your preference
- Apply in a dust-free environment to prevent particles from sticking
- Consider a second coat for additional protection
Framing and Display Options
- Stretch your canvas over wooden stretcher bars for a professional look
- Choose a complementary frame that enhances your artwork
- Consider a floating frame to showcase the entire canvas
- Display in areas away from direct sunlight to prevent fading
- Create a gallery wall by grouping multiple completed paintings
Your completed artwork makes a wonderful personalized gift or a meaningful addition to your home décor. Be proud of what you’ve created—each painting represents hours of focus and creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paint by Numbers
How long does it take to complete a paint by numbers kit?
Completion time varies based on the complexity of the design and how much time you dedicate to painting. A standard 16×20 inch canvas might take anywhere from 10 to 20 hours of painting time. Remember, paint by numbers is about enjoying the process, not racing to finish.
What if I make a mistake while painting?
Don’t worry! If you paint outside the lines or use the wrong color, simply wait for the paint to dry completely. Then apply the correct color over the mistake. For major errors, you can use a small amount of white acrylic paint to cover the area before reapplying the correct color.
Why are the numbers still visible through my paint?
Some paint colors are naturally more transparent than others. For areas where numbers show through, apply a second coat after the first layer is completely dry. You can also try using slightly less water in your paint for better coverage.
Can I mix the paints to create new colors?
Absolutely! While paint by numbers kits are designed to work with the provided colors, experimenting with mixing can add a personal touch to your artwork. Just be sure to mix enough for the entire section to maintain consistency.
Start Your Paint by Numbers Journey Today
Every masterpiece begins with a single brushstroke. Paint by numbers offers a structured yet creative way to experience the joy of painting, regardless of your artistic background. The satisfaction of watching your canvas transform, one numbered section at a time, is a unique pleasure that combines focus, creativity, and accomplishment.
Remember that your paint by numbers journey is personal. Some days you might complete many sections; other days, just a few. What matters is the mindful experience and the pride in creating something beautiful with your own hands.
Ready to Create Your Own Masterpiece?
Browse our collection of premium paint by numbers kits and find the perfect design to begin your artistic journey.
