7 Easy Ways to Cover Numbers in Paint by Numbers

Paint by numbers has become one of the most popular creative hobbies in recent years. It's relaxing, enjoyable, and allows anyone to create beautiful artwork regardless of artistic experience. However, there's one challenge nearly every painter encounters at some point: the numbers showing through the paint.

Nothing is more frustrating than spending hours carefully filling in sections only to notice the printed numbers still visible beneath the paint. Fortunately, this problem is easy to solve with the right techniques.

In this guide, you'll discover 7 simple ways to make paint by numbers paint cover the numbers better, helping you achieve a cleaner, more professional-looking finished painting.

Why Can Numbers Sometimes Be Visible While Painting?

If you've noticed numbers showing through during the painting process, don't worry—this is completely normal, especially in the early stages of a paint by numbers project.

Several factors can affect how quickly a section becomes fully covered:

• Lighter colors naturally require more than one coat for full opacity.

• Acrylic paint often looks more transparent when it's first applied.

• Detailed areas may need extra attention due to their small size.

• Some colors contain different pigment levels, which can affect coverage.

• Canvas texture can make the first coat appear uneven until additional layers are added.

The good news is that a few simple techniques can help you achieve smooth, even coverage and a beautiful finished result.

1. Apply Multiple Thin Coats Instead of One Thick Layer

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is trying to cover numbers with a single thick coat of paint.

While it may seem like the fastest solution, thick paint often creates:

• Uneven textures

• Visible brush strokes

• Cracking after drying

• Poor blending between sections

Instead, apply two or three thin layers.

How to Do It

1. Paint the section normally.

2. Allow it to dry completely.

3. Apply a second coat.

4. Add a third coat if necessary.

This method gradually builds opacity while maintaining a smooth finish.

Why It Works

Multiple layers create a richer color appearance and completely hide dark numbers underneath.

2. Use White Paint as a Base Coat

When dealing with very dark numbers beneath light colors, a white undercoat can be a game changer.

Many experienced paint by numbers enthusiasts use this trick regularly.

Best Areas for a White Base

• Light yellow sections

• Pale pink areas

• Sky blue regions

• Light green spaces

• White or cream-colored sections

How to Apply It

Paint a thin layer of white acrylic paint over the numbered area before applying the intended color.

Once dry, add the actual paint color on top.

The white layer acts as a barrier, preventing the dark number from showing through.

3. Stir Your Paint Thoroughly

Believe it or not, many paint coverage issues occur simply because the paint hasn't been mixed properly.

Over time, acrylic paint can separate inside its container.

The pigment settles while the liquid medium rises to the top.

Signs Your Paint Needs Mixing

• Watery texture

• Uneven color

• Streaky application

• Weak coverage

Quick Solution

Use a toothpick or small stir stick to mix each paint pot before use.

Spend about 20–30 seconds stirring until the consistency becomes smooth and uniform.

You'll often notice dramatically better coverage immediately.

4. Don't Add Too Much Water

Many painters dilute their acrylic paint to improve flow.

While a tiny amount of water can help, excessive thinning reduces opacity significantly.

Common Problem

When paint becomes too watery:

• Numbers become visible

• Colors appear faded

• Paint runs into adjacent sections

• Multiple extra coats become necessary

Better Alternative

If your paint feels thick:

• Add only one drop of water at a time.

• Mix thoroughly.

• Test on a small area first.

Another option is using an acrylic flow medium instead of water, as it improves consistency without sacrificing coverage.

5. Choose Quality Brushes

Your brush plays a bigger role than you might think.

Cheap brushes often:

• Leave streaks

• Create uneven coverage

• Shed bristles

• Hold less paint

Investing in a few quality detail brushes can instantly improve results.

Recommended Brush Types

• Round brushes for small sections

• Flat brushes for larger areas

• Fine detail brushes for intricate spots

Benefits of Better Brushes

A quality brush distributes paint more evenly, helping colors appear richer and cover printed numbers more effectively.

6. Paint Over Numbers First

Here's a simple trick many experienced painters swear by.

Before filling the entire section, paint directly over the number itself.

Step-by-Step Method

1. Load your brush with paint.

2. Cover the printed number first.

3. Let that small area dry.

4. Fill in the rest of the section.

Why This Works

The number receives two layers of paint:

• The initial targeted coat

• The final section coat

As a result, the printed ink disappears much more effectively.

This method is particularly useful when working with light shades.

7. Use Acrylic Paint Markers for Difficult Areas

Some paint by numbers kits contain extremely dark numbering that remains visible despite multiple paint layers.

When traditional methods aren't enough, acrylic paint markers can help.

Benefits of Acrylic Paint Markers

• High opacity

• Precise application

• Smooth coverage

• Excellent for tiny sections

Apply a white acrylic marker over stubborn numbers before painting.

After it dries, continue painting normally.

Many artists use this technique for intricate custom paint by numbers projects where precision matters.

Bonus Tips for Professional-Looking Coverage

Want even better results? Try these additional tricks.

Work Under Good Lighting

Poor lighting can make it difficult to see areas where numbers remain visible.

Natural daylight is ideal, but a bright LED craft lamp works well too.

Allow Paint to Dry Completely

Applying fresh paint over semi-dry layers can create streaking and uneven coverage.

Patience pays off.

Keep Paint Containers Sealed

Acrylic paint dries quickly when exposed to air.

Always close paint pots immediately after use to maintain proper consistency.

Start with Dark Colors

Many painters find it easier to paint dark colors first and lighter colors afterward.

This reduces accidental color contamination and improves overall appearance.

Common Mistakes That Make Numbers More Visible

Avoid these common errors:

Using Excessive Water

Over-thinned paint becomes transparent and weak.

Rushing Between Coats

Each layer should dry completely before adding another.

Using Old or Dried Paint

Aged paint often loses pigment strength and coverage ability.

Painting with Worn-Out Brushes

Frayed bristles create uneven paint distribution.

How Many Coats Are Usually Needed?

The number of coats depends on the color being used.

Typical Coverage Guide

Lighter colors naturally require more layers because they contain less pigment density.

Benefits of Better Paint Coverage

Improving paint coverage does more than hide numbers.

It also:

• Creates richer colors

• Produces a more professional finish

• Increases artwork longevity

• Enhances overall satisfaction

• Makes framed pieces look gallery-ready

A few extra minutes spent improving coverage can dramatically improve the final result.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can I still see numbers after two coats?

Some light colors, particularly white, yellow, and pastel shades, naturally have lower opacity. Applying a white base coat or adding an extra layer usually solves the problem.

Can I use regular acrylic paint with paint by numbers kits?

Yes. Many painters supplement kit paints with artist-grade acrylics when additional coverage is needed.

Is it okay to paint over numbers before starting?

Absolutely. Many experienced painters intentionally cover numbers first to improve opacity.

Should I use a primer on my canvas?

Most paint by numbers canvases don't require priming, but applying a thin layer of clear gesso can sometimes improve paint adhesion and coverage.

What if my paint is too thick?

Add a tiny amount of water or acrylic medium and mix thoroughly. Avoid excessive dilution.

Do expensive paint by numbers kits have better coverage?

Generally, higher-quality kits use better pigments and canvas materials, which can improve coverage and overall results.

Final Thoughts

Getting paint by numbers paint to cover the numbers better doesn't require advanced artistic skills or expensive supplies. Most coverage problems can be solved with a few simple techniques, such as applying multiple thin coats, using a white base layer, mixing paint properly, and choosing quality brushes.

Whether you're painting your first canvas or your fiftieth, these methods can help transform a good project into a stunning piece of art. By taking a little extra time and using the right approach, you'll enjoy richer colors, cleaner sections, and a finished painting that looks truly professional.

Happy painting! 🎨