Added to cart!

Paint by numbers - 13 Tips for beginners

Getting started with a paint by numbers kit is relaxing, creative, and a lot of fun. Whether you’re painting for the first time or looking to improve your results, these helpful tips will make your painting experience easier and more enjoyable.

Below, we share the best paint by numbers tips for beginners!

1. Create a Comfortable Workspace

Before you begin your paint by numbers canvas, make sure you have a clean, flat workspace with good lighting.

Make it extra cozy with:

  • a cup of tea or coffee

  • calming music

  • a candle or ambient lighting

The more comfortable you are, the more you’ll enjoy painting.

2. Take a Photo of the Canvas First

Always take a clear photo of the canvas before you start painting.

As you paint, some numbers and lines may disappear under the paint. With a photo, you can easily check later which color belongs where.

This is one of the most useful paint by numbers tips for beginners.

3. Label and Organize the Paint Pots

Check the color chart and make sure each paint pot has the correct number.

Good organization:

  • saves time

  • prevents confusion

  • makes painting much more relaxing

This keeps your paint by numbers project clear and organized.

4. Keep Water and Paper Towels Nearby

Always have:

  • a container of water

  • paper towels or tissues

These help you quickly clean your brushes between colors and easily fix small mistakes.

5. Work from Top to Bottom

A smart technique for paint by numbers is to work from top to bottom.

Are you right-handed?

Work from the top left to the bottom right.

Are you left-handed?

Work the opposite way.

This helps prevent accidentally smudging wet paint.

6. Cover Visible Numbers with White Paint

Can you still see the numbers through lighter colors?

Apply a small amount of white paint over the number first before using the final color. This creates a cleaner and more professional-looking result.

7. Start with Light Colors

Begin with the lighter colors first.

Dark colors usually cover better, making it easier to correct mistakes later. This makes painting much easier for beginners.

8. Take Good Care of Your Brushes

Good brushes create better results.

Important tips:

  • clean your brushes regularly

  • dry them properly

  • reshape the tip after cleaning

This keeps your lines neat and helps you paint more precisely.

9. Close the Paint Pots Immediately

Acrylic paint dries quickly.

Make it a habit to close the paint pots tightly right after use, even if you only stop painting for a short moment.

10. Don’t Use Too Much Paint

Using too much paint on your brush can cause:

  • thick streaks

  • uneven layers

  • paint outside the lines

Thin layers usually give the best results with a paint by numbers kit.

11. Rotate the Canvas While Painting

You don’t always have to sit directly in front of the canvas.

Rotating the canvas occasionally makes it easier to reach small corners and details. It’s often much more comfortable this way.

12. Use Different Brushes

Most paint by numbers kits include several brushes.

Use:

  • larger brushes for bigger areas

  • smaller brushes for details

This works faster and gives a cleaner result.

13. Most Important: Enjoy the Process

The most important part of paint by numbers is relaxation and enjoyment.

Take your time and enjoy watching your artwork come to life step by step.

Why Paint by Numbers Is So Popular

Paint by numbers for adults has become extremely popular because it:

  • reduces stress

  • provides relaxation

  • stimulates creativity

  • is accessible to everyone

You don’t need any experience to create a beautiful painting.

Discover Our Paint by Numbers Kits

Ready to get started yourself?

Browse our collection of paint by numbers kits and discover the best designs for beginners and advanced painters alike. 🎨

Frequently Asked Questions About Paint by Numbers

Why should I take a photo of the canvas before starting?

During painting, numbers and lines often disappear under the paint. A clear photo gives you a reference so you can easily check later which color belongs where. It prevents confusion and makes corrections easier.

Which colors should I start with, and how do I cover visible numbers?

Start with the lighter colors first. Darker shades usually cover better, making it easier to correct mistakes later. If numbers remain visible through a light color, apply a small amount of white paint over the number first and then paint the final color on top for a cleaner, more professional result.

What is the best order and direction for painting to avoid smudging wet paint?

Work from top to bottom. If you are right-handed, work from the top left to the bottom right; if you are left-handed, do the opposite. This helps prevent smudging wet paint. Also, avoid using too much paint on your brush and work in thin layers to prevent thick streaks and painting outside the lines. Feel free to rotate the canvas while painting to make small corners and details easier to reach.

How do I keep my brushes and paint pots in good condition while painting?

Always keep a container of water and paper towels nearby to quickly clean your brushes between colors, dry them properly, and reshape the tip. Close acrylic paint pots immediately after use because acrylic paint dries quickly. Label and organize the pots according to the color chart to save time and avoid confusion.

Why is paint by numbers so popular among adults?

It reduces stress, provides relaxation, stimulates creativity, and is accessible to everyone. You don’t need any experience to achieve a beautiful result, making it an easy and enjoyable creative hobby.

Back to News