What is Paint by Numbers?

Paint by numbers is a structured painting technique where the canvas is divided into small numbered sections. Each number corresponds to a specific color. You simply match the paint to the number, fill in the section, and watch a finished artwork emerge section by section.

It was invented in the 1950s as a way to make the experience of painting accessible to everyone, regardless of training or artistic talent. Today it has had a major revival as a relaxing creative hobby for adults.

Why Adults Love Paint by Numbers

• Stress relief. The focused repetitive process is genuinely meditative. Many people describe it as a form of active meditation.
• Unplug from screens. A paint session is one of the rare activities that keeps your hands busy and your phone untouched.
• Visible progress. Unlike many hobbies, you see your work evolve visibly from session to session. That's deeply rewarding.
• No pressure. You don't need to learn technique or brush skills. The canvas does the work.
• A finished piece to display. When you're done, you have real art for your wall, not a screen thumbnail.

How to Choose Your First Kit

Start with a theme you love

The best first kit is one you actually want to hang on your wall. Browse our landscapes, animals, florals, or cities. If the image excites you, the hours you spend on it will feel rewarding, not forced.

Size matters for beginners

Smaller canvases (16x20 inches) are completed in 6-12 hours over a few evenings, making them ideal for a first kit. Larger canvases (20x28 inches) take 15-25 hours and work better once you're comfortable with the process.

Check the number of colors

Kits with 24-30 colors are easier for beginners. Kits with 50+ colors offer more detailed artwork but require more focus and longer sessions.

What to Expect in Your First Kit

Every Artistry By Numbers kit includes:

• A pre-printed cotton canvas with numbered sections
• All acrylic paints pre-mixed and labeled
• A set of brushes (fine, medium, broad)
• A reference image
• Simple instructions

How to Start Painting

1. Set up your workspace

Find a flat, well-lit surface. Natural daylight is ideal but a bright desk lamp works. Lay down newspaper or a cloth to protect the surface.

2. Start with the darkest colors first

Most experienced painters recommend working from the darkest colors first (usually 1) to the lightest. This prevents accidental mixing and keeps the composition balanced.

3. Work on one color at a time

Dip your brush in color 1, paint every "1" section on the canvas. Then rinse, dry, and move to color 2. This is slower than jumping around but produces better results and less mess.

4. Let paint dry between sessions

Acrylic dries in 15-30 minutes. If you leave the canvas between sessions, close the paint pots tightly with a twist of the lid, or they can dry out.

Common Beginner Mistakes

• Using too much water on the brush. Acrylic paint should be thick enough to fully cover the numbered section. If you water it down too much, the numbers will show through the final piece.
• Skipping around. It's tempting to jump between colors. Resist it. Finish one color fully, then move on.
• Rushing. The relaxing part is the process, not the finish line. Give yourself 1-2 hour sessions rather than trying to rush through.

How Long Does a Kit Take?

A small 16x20 inch canvas with 24 colors takes 6-12 hours total for most beginners. Spread over a week of evenings (1-2 hours per session), you'll have a finished piece to frame. Larger kits with 50+ colors can take 15-30 hours.

Ready to Start?

Browse our beginner-friendly kits with 24-30 color palettes, or jump straight to the bestsellers our customers love most. Free worldwide shipping on all orders. 30-day returns if you change your mind.