How to Improve Your Paint by Numbers Results: From Beginner to Pro
You have completed your first kit and want even better paint by numbers results on the next one. Improving your paint by numbers technique does not require talent, just a few proven methods that experienced painters use. Apply these and watch your results jump from good to gallery-worthy.
At ArtistryByNumbers: Free shipping to the US, Canada, the UK, the EU, Australia and New Zealand and Buy 2 Get 1 Free.
Want to paint this yourself?
Turn one of your own photos into a numbered canvas (from $19.95). We trace it, mix the paints to match, and ship the kit with brushes.
Or pick a ready-made design
- One with Nature Painting by Numbers Premium Kit (from $19.95)
- Bold and Free Painting by Numbers Premium Kit (from $19.95)
- Ocean's First Light Painting by Numbers Kit (from $19.95)
10 Tips for Better Paint by Numbers Results
- Paint one color at a time across the whole canvas: not section by section
- Paint the darkest colors first: they fix the shapes early, and the lighter colors and highlights go on top
- Use the right brush size: fine for tiny areas, broad for large. Always.
- Thin coats beat thick coats: 2 thin layers look better than 1 thick one
- Let sections dry before painting neighbors: prevents bleeding
- Clean brushes thoroughly between colors: residual color muddies the next one
- Good lighting is non-negotiable: daylight lamp changes everything
- Take your time on the details: the last 20% of tiny sections makes 80% of the impact
- Try blending at borders: feather colors together for smooth transitions
- Varnish when finished: adds vibrancy and protection
Level Up Your Equipment
- A magnifying glass for tiny sections
- A daylight lamp for true color visibility
- A table easel for comfortable long sessions
Your choice of design matters too. A beginner-friendly kit has larger color areas that are easier to keep clean, and the best sellers are a safe pick for the next one. When the painting is done, our guide to framing a finished canvas covers the last step.
No experience needed to start improving. Money-back guarantee.
Free shipping to the US, Canada, the UK, the EU, Australia and New Zealand, with no minimum order. Buy two kits and the third is free, applied automatically at checkout.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my paint by numbers results look better?
Paint one color at a time across the whole canvas, use thin coats and give each section time to dry before painting the one next to it. Good daylight and a fine brush for the small numbered areas make more difference than any special technique.
Why do my paint by numbers colors look patchy?
Usually because the paint went on in one thick coat or the brush was carrying water or another color. Two thin coats cover the printed numbers more evenly than one thick one, and a brush rinsed and dried between colors keeps each color clean.
How do I stop paint by numbers colors bleeding into each other?
Let a section dry before you paint its neighbor, and use the fine brush along the borders. Acrylic is touch dry in about fifteen minutes, so working around the canvas one color at a time gives each area time to set.
Should I varnish a finished paint by numbers?
It is optional. A coat of acrylic varnish once the painting is fully dry evens out the shine between colors and protects the surface from dust and light, which helps if the canvas will hang unframed.
