Over the years, paint-by-number kits have evolved from being a nostalgic pastime to a full-blown hobby that has been embraced by adults and children alike. Whether you're a first-time painter or a seasoned professional looking to improve your craft, it's important to select the right kit, as it's the first and often the deciding factor that will influence your experience.
With a multitude of options available online and at stores, it is crucial to know what to look for when buying paint-by-numbers. From types of canvas to types of paints, buying paint by numbers is all about the details.
In these blog posts, we're going to lead you through tips from experts and a few insider tips to help you select the right kit for your needs, whether you're testing this calming hobby for the first time or looking to hone your skills. Whether you're figuring out a reputable brand or what image is best suited for your Custom Paint by Numbers kit, here is your guide to buying paint by numbers like a pro.
Before you add any kit to your cart, ask yourself, Why are you painting? Is it for relaxation, for artwork on your wall, to create a personalized gift, or to express your creative side? Knowing your why will help you find the right kit for you.
For example:
If you are painting to relax, you may want to think about selecting the simplest designs with larger areas to paint.
If you are creating wall art, you may want to consider higher-detailed kits that have a more complex image.
If you are giving a gift, you may think about considering a Custom Paint by Numbers option that takes a photo and makes it into a personalized canvas.
Your why will inform your what.
Paint by Numbers kits come in a variety of skill levels, from easy to difficult. If you select the wrong difficulty level, your fun project could become a stressful experience. Here is a quick guideline:
Beginner: 10-15 colours, larger spaces, not so much detail. Perfect for kids or someone who has never done a paint-by-numbers canvas before.
Intermediate: 20-30colourss moderate degree of difficulty. Recommended for people who have completed a few kits.
Advanced: 35+ colours, small detail, a lot of small areas. Great for experienced painters looking for a challenge.
If you are ever in doubt, go easy! You will enjoy the process more and gain confidence with each completed canvas.
Don't pick a kit because it is popular or first in the search results. Painting takes time, and you want to stay interested and inspired by the image you are creating. Think about image themes that will show off your personality or that make you smile and remind you of treasured memories.
Do you love nature? Pick a forest or mountain theme. Do you love animals? Pick a lion or a cute puppy. Want something very personal? Choose a Custom Paint by Numbers kit using a special photo of one of your loved ones, your pet, or a travel photo.
When the image is meaningful to you, you will enjoy the process more and be more connected to the finished product.
The canvas quality directly influences your experience, and you can't expect to enjoy your painting experience if you're stuck with what should be in the trash. Look for the following criteria when selecting a canvas:
It should be thick and with enough texture to hold paint and not warp.
It should be clear enough to identify and read numbers and lines.
It should be either pre-stretched to a wooden frame or rolled to stretch.
It is important to note that some low-quality kits are going to come with wrinkled, flimsy, or poorly printed canvas, which is going to ruin your painting experience, or worse, out you from painting entirely. Make sure to read product reviews and check customer photos ahead of time.
Not all acrylics are the same. The Paint by Numbers professional kits provide vibrant, non-toxic, and fast-drying acrylics with good pigment coverage. What to look for:
Pre-mixed paints: You won't have to guess what the ratio should be—just open and paint.
Twice as many extra pots of common colours as you will need, just in case you run out mid-project.
Smooth consistency of paint. The paint should be easy to apply, but not runny. The paint should self-level easily for painting.
A smart trick: look at reviews to see if users complained about paint drying out, or not enough pigment. Consider, if the kit has it available, that you can get replacement paints and colour refills.
Quality brushes matter when it comes to control and detail. Ideally, you should have:
A small brush for fine lines and tiny details.
A medium brush for general areas.
A large brush for the background and broader area.
Some pro kits even include angled or detail brushes for versatility. If you plan to paint with any frequency, consider a separate professional-grade set of brushes; they last longer and provide more precise control, too.
Your chosen size will influence the amount of impact your painting has, as well as how long it takes to complete. Smaller canvases (for example, 20 x 20 cm) are faster to complete and are great for dipping your toe into painting. Medium size (30 x 40 cm or 40 x 50 cm) is the ideal choice and a good compromise for most people.
Large canvases (50 x 70 cm or more) give you more space to decorate with intricate details (which is useful for Custom Paint by Numbers kits that feature portraits or scenes). Of course, it may take a little more time and patience.
When you make the choice of the size, also think about the amount of space you have, the amount of time and focus to do it, and if it will be simply a gift or decoration in your place.
A professional Paint by Numbers kit will include:
A printed copy of the reference image (so you can accurately see what the final project will look like)
A paint number chart
Step-by-step instructions
Many brands have added QR codes that lead to video instructions, painting hints, a paint by numbers community, or alternative assistance. This is particularly useful if you are embarking on your first project or are doing a Custom paint-by-numbers portrait that is highly detailed.
If you are ordering from a website, be aware of customer service in case you need extra paint, more brushes or if you might have a question related to your order.
If you are painting something special (for example, a gift or custom artwork), you will probably want to frame it. Look for kits that include pre-stretched canvases or even a frame option when checking out.
Framing your artwork does a few things to help you, most notably making it ready to hang and getting it protected from dust and damage. Many of the stores also sell frame bundles with Paint by Numbers kits, which can make the entire process even easier.
Not all kits sold digitally are created equal. If looking to purchase like a pro, avoid cut-price knockoffs, which may compromise on quality. Choose brands with :
Customer ratings focus on customers
Verified reviews with actual customer photos,
Customer support that responds,
Information about the return policy, if offered.
Bonus trick: support independent businesses or artists who sell homemade or limited edition Paint by Numbers kits, as you will get a unique experience. Another uniqueness is that many will also allow you to request Custom Paint by Numbers projects.
Final Thoughts
Making intelligent choices is key to purchasing Paint by Numbers kits like a pro. It entails going beyond the aesthetics and ensuring that the support paint, canvas and brushes are all of a high calibre. Painting becomes more than just a craft with the correct kit; it's a means of self-expression, creativity and relaxation.
If you follow these guidelines, your artistic journey will be easy, fun and incredibly fulfilling, regardless of whether you're using a Custom Paint by Numbers kit to paint a portrait of your pet, a romantic sunset, or a memory from your childhood. So pick up your brush, follow your gut and begin painting like an expert one number at a time.