What Is Paint by Numbers? A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Paint by numbers is a creative activity where a picture is divided into outlined sections, with each section marked by a number. Every number corresponds to a particular paint colour, allowing you to complete the picture by matching the numbered paint pots to the numbers printed on the canvas.

In simple terms, paint by numbers is like a colouring book—but instead of pencils, you use acrylic paint and brushes to create your own artwork.

The numbered design guides you through the entire painting process, making it possible for beginners to create detailed artwork without needing previous painting experience.

Whether you’re searching for a relaxing new hobby, a meaningful personalised gift or a creative activity to enjoy at home, paint by numbers offers an easy and enjoyable introduction to painting.

How Does Paint by Numbers Work?

A paint-by-numbers canvas contains a pre-drawn design divided into many sections. Each section has a small number printed inside it.

The paint pots included with the kit are also numbered. To begin painting, simply select a numbered paint pot, find the matching sections on the canvas and carefully fill them in.

For example, every section marked with the number 5 should be painted using the colour found in paint pot number 5.

As you continue matching the colours to the canvas, the outlines and numbers gradually disappear beneath the paint. What initially looks like a collection of unusual shapes slowly transforms into a complete picture.

You can work through the canvas one colour at a time or complete it section by section. There is no need to finish the painting in one sitting—you can work at your own pace and return to it whenever you have time.

What Comes in a Paint-by-Numbers Kit?

A standard paint-by-numbers kit generally includes the essential materials needed to complete your artwork.

The exact contents can vary, but most kits contain:

• A pre-drawn and numbered canvas

• Numbered acrylic paint pots

• Paintbrushes in different sizes

• A reference image of the completed design

• Instructions to help you get started

Some paint-by-numbers kits may also include a frame, hanging accessories or additional tools.

The numbered paints are selected specifically for the design, so you don’t need to mix or choose your own colours. This makes the process approachable for people who have never painted before.

Before starting, check that you have all the included materials and arrange your paint pots in numerical order. Preparing your workspace first will make the painting process easier and more enjoyable.

Do You Need Painting Experience?

No, you do not need any painting experience to complete a paint-by-numbers kit.

That is one of the biggest reasons paint by numbers has become such a popular creative hobby. The numbered canvas provides clear guidance, while the matching paints remove the uncertainty of choosing colours.

You don’t need to know how to draw, mix colours or plan a composition. The main design work has already been completed for you.

Your job is simply to follow the numbers and take your time.

Beginners may find the small sections challenging at first, but brush control usually becomes easier with practice. Starting with larger areas can help you become comfortable with the paint and brushes before moving on to finer details.

By the time you finish your first canvas, you may be surprised by how much your confidence and painting technique have improved.

Is Paint by Numbers Only for Children?

Paint by numbers can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

Children’s kits usually feature simpler designs, larger sections and fewer colours. Paint-by-numbers kits for adults often contain more detailed images, smaller sections and a wider range of colours.

Popular adult paint-by-numbers designs include:

• Landscapes and nature scenes

• Animals and pet portraits

• Flowers and botanical artwork

• Famous artwork-inspired designs

• Cities and travel destinations

• Family portraits

• Abstract artwork

• Personalised photographs

The guided format makes paint by numbers accessible to beginners, while the level of detail in adult designs can still provide an engaging and rewarding challenge.

Why Is Paint by Numbers So Popular?

Paint by numbers combines creativity with simple, step-by-step instructions.

A blank canvas can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve never painted before. A numbered canvas gives you a clear place to begin and shows you exactly what to do next.

Many people also enjoy paint by numbers because it encourages them to slow down and focus on one small task at a time. Instead of worrying about the entire picture, you can concentrate on completing a single numbered section.

There is also a visible sense of progress. Every painted area brings the picture closer to completion, which can make the experience especially satisfying.

Paint by numbers is popular because it can:

• Be completed without previous painting experience

• Provide a creative break from screens

• Offer a relaxing activity for quiet afternoons

• Help beginners practise brush control

• Create a sense of progress and accomplishment

• Be enjoyed alone or with family and friends

• Produce artwork that can be displayed at home

• Turn meaningful photographs into handmade keepsakes

What Is Personalised Paint by Numbers?

Personalised paint by numbers—also called custom paint by numbers—allows you to transform one of your own photographs into a numbered painting kit.

Instead of selecting a ready-made design, you upload a favourite photo. The image is then converted into a custom numbered canvas with matching paint colours.

Popular photos for personalised paint-by-numbers kits include:

• Family photographs

• Wedding pictures

• Pet portraits

• Holiday memories

• Pictures of children or grandchildren

• Couple photographs

• Memorial portraits

• Favourite homes or locations

The finished painting becomes more meaningful because it is based on a memory that is personal to you.

A personalised kit can also make a thoughtful gift. Rather than simply giving someone a printed photograph, you can give them the experience of painting that memory themselves.

What Photos Work Best for Custom Paint by Numbers?

For the best result, choose a clear photograph with good lighting and a recognisable main subject.

High-quality images usually produce clearer details and more accurate colours. The main subject should be easy to see rather than appearing very small in the background.

When choosing a photograph:

• Use the highest-resolution version available

• Select an image with clear, natural lighting

• Make sure faces are visible and in focus

• Avoid screenshots or heavily compressed images

• Choose a photograph with a clear focal point

• Avoid extremely dark or blurry pictures

• Consider cropping unnecessary background details

• Choose a canvas size that suits the amount of detail

If your photo contains several people, a larger canvas may help preserve facial details. A close-up image of one person or pet can usually work well across a wider range of canvas sizes.

Most importantly, choose a photograph that has meaning to you.

Is Paint by Numbers Difficult?

Paint by numbers is designed to be beginner-friendly, but the difficulty depends on the design you choose.

A simple image with large sections and fewer colours will generally be easier and faster to complete. A detailed portrait with many small sections may require more time, patience and brush control.

If you are purchasing your first paint-by-numbers kit, consider choosing:

• A medium-sized canvas

• A design with clear shapes

• Fewer extremely small details

• A picture with strong colour contrast

• A subject you’re excited to paint

The process may feel slow when you first begin, but there is no need to rush. Paint by numbers is intended to be completed at your own pace.

How Long Does Paint by Numbers Take?

The time required to finish a paint-by-numbers canvas varies depending on its size, level of detail and the amount of time you spend painting.

A simple design may be completed over several painting sessions, while a highly detailed personalised portrait can take considerably longer.

Some people enjoy completing their kit over a weekend. Others paint for 30 minutes or an hour at a time and finish their canvas gradually over several weeks.

There is no correct completion time.

Taking regular breaks can help you maintain a steady hand and prevent the activity from becoming tiring. The purpose is to enjoy the creative process, not finish as quickly as possible.

How Do You Start a Paint-by-Numbers Kit?

Before you start, choose a clean, comfortable workspace with good lighting.

Lay the canvas on a flat surface and arrange your numbered paints and brushes within easy reach. Keep a small cup of clean water and a cloth or paper towel nearby for cleaning your brushes.

Follow these simple steps:

1. Choose a numbered paint pot.

2. Find the matching number on the canvas.

3. Apply a thin layer of paint inside the outlined section.

4. Continue filling the other sections with that number.

5. Clean your brush before changing colours.

6. Close each paint pot securely after using it.

7. Allow painted sections to dry before touching them.

Some painters begin with the largest background areas, while others prefer working from the top of the canvas downward.

If you are right-handed, working from the top-left toward the bottom-right can help prevent your hand from resting on wet paint. Left-handed painters may find it easier to begin at the top-right.

Helpful Paint-by-Numbers Tips for Beginners

A few simple techniques can help you create a cleaner finished painting:

Use Thin Layers

Apply a small amount of paint and spread it evenly across the section. Two thin coats often create a smoother finish than one thick coat.

Paint One Colour at a Time

Completing the matching sections before changing colours reduces the need to repeatedly clean your brush and open different paint pots.

Keep Paint Pots Closed

Acrylic paint can dry when exposed to air. Close each pot securely whenever it is not being used.

Clean Brushes Regularly

Rinse your brush thoroughly when changing colours and never allow acrylic paint to dry on the bristles.

Start With Larger Sections

Larger areas can help beginners become comfortable with the brushes before moving on to fine details.

Use Good Lighting

Bright natural light or a desk lamp will make the small numbers easier to read and help reduce eye strain.

Take a Photo of the Canvas

Before painting, take a clear picture of the untouched numbered canvas. You can zoom in on the photo later if a number becomes difficult to identify.

Can You Frame a Finished Paint-by-Numbers Canvas?

Yes, completed paint-by-numbers artwork can be framed and displayed just like other canvas art.

Before framing or hanging your painting, make sure every section is completely dry. Check the canvas from a distance and apply a second coat to any areas where numbers or printed lines are still visible.

Your finished artwork can be displayed in a living room, bedroom, hallway or home office. Personalised family and pet portraits can also make thoughtful handmade gifts.

Displaying the finished canvas is a great way to celebrate the time and effort you invested in creating it.

Is Paint by Numbers a Good Gift?

Paint-by-numbers kits can make thoughtful gifts for people who enjoy crafts, creative activities or personalised keepsakes.

They can be suitable for:

• Birthdays

• Christmas

• Mother’s Day

• Father’s Day

• Anniversaries

• Weddings and engagements

• Housewarmings

• Retirement celebrations

• Pet memorials

A ready-made kit is a great option when you know what subjects the recipient enjoys. A personalised paint-by-numbers kit can make the gift even more meaningful by using a photograph connected to a special person, pet or memory.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does paint by numbers mean?

Paint by numbers is a guided painting activity where a picture is divided into numbered sections. Each number matches a specific paint colour, showing you which colour to use in every part of the picture.

Is paint by numbers real painting?

Yes. You use real brushes and acrylic paints to apply colour to a canvas. The design provides guidance, but you still complete the painting yourself.

Can beginners do paint by numbers?

Absolutely. Paint by numbers is specifically designed to make painting accessible to beginners. No drawing or previous painting experience is required.

What type of paint is used?

Most paint-by-numbers kits use acrylic paint because it dries relatively quickly, provides strong colour coverage and can be cleaned from brushes using water while still wet.

Do you have to follow the numbers?

The numbers provide a useful guide, but the finished artwork is yours. You can follow the design exactly or add your own colours, shading and personal details.

What happens if the numbers show through?

Wait for the first layer to dry and apply another thin coat. Lighter colours may need a second coat to fully cover the printed number and lines.

Is paint by numbers suitable for adults?

Yes. Adult paint-by-numbers kits are available in many detailed designs and can provide an enjoyable creative project for people of different ages and skill levels.

Discover the Joy of Paint by Numbers

So, what is paint by numbers?

It is a simple, guided way to create your own artwork by matching numbered sections on a canvas with corresponding paint colours.

More importantly, it is an opportunity to slow down, try something creative and experience the satisfaction of watching a picture come to life through your own work.

You don’t need to consider yourself an artist. You don’t need to understand colour theory or know how to draw.

You simply need to choose a design, pick up a brush and begin with the first number.

Explore our collection of paint-by-numbers kits or turn a treasured photograph into a personalised canvas and start creating something meaningful today.