There’s a hidden artist in everyone of us. It just waiting to be explored. What if I told you, with minimal effort you could let that artist out and impress yourself (at the least). Paint by Numbers is a way to let that artist out and also take a break from everything going on in your life.

If you don't know what Paint by Numbers is, let me shed a little light on it so it you don't get lost and bored while reading the article. As the name suggests, it is painting with the help of numbers. Numbers are labelled throughout the canvas and paints are provided. The artist is advised to paint the regions with their corresponding color shades. Paint by Numbers is considered a very relaxing hobby and is suitable for all ages. It is the first step towards learning and mastering art.

This article will help you understand how to use Paint by Numbers to the fullest by highlighting the tips and tricks. This article hopes to help you understand the problems faced by fellow artists and how to dodge them. Hopefully, this article will help you complete your painting in a professional manner, avoiding any surprises. If you’re still reading this article, this means you’re interested in DIY Paint by Numbers. Get yourself one of the many Paint by Numbers kits to get started.

Get yourself a frame
It’s easier to work on a framed canvas. There are no creases and it keeps the canvas in place, making your life easier. Some companies offer frame options with it but if you buy one without the frame, it’s better to invest in a frame.



Organized work space
Make sure to cover your work space before you go all Van Gogh. Even though the paints are not liquid-y as per say, it is still advised to cover your fancy dining table with an old cloth or bunch of newspapers to avoid ‘painting’ off canvas. Before you dive in, make sure you’re comfortable working there. Concentration is the key to the perfect painting so make sure you’re not in a noisy place (unless you don't get distracted easily).



Start from the top of the canvas
It is recommended to start from the top and make your way down to avoid any smudging. Remember to do the darker shades first. They are mostly assigned to the background. It is advised to work on the larger areas first and then start painting the smaller ones. Not only is it easier this way but it also saves you time.



Take care of your tools
Your tools being your brushes. An artist without the right brushes is like a chef without his recipes. Make sure you take care of your paint brushes before, during and after painting. Dip the brush in water and before switching colors. Once selected which color to use first, color all the corresponding areas on the canvas before changing colors. This way you will not have to clean your brush after every single area has been colored and will avoid confusion. Don’t leave the paint on the brush as it will ruin your paintbrush. As Paint by Numbers is acrylic paints. If dried, the thick paint clogs the paintbrushes. It is not easy to wash remove it and it could potentially damage the brushes. Here are some acrylic painting tips.



Cover the paints
When not in use, make sure you cover the paints as the paints dry up very quickly. If you’re forget and find your paints dried up, add water and they’ll be good to use again.



Everyone makes mistakes
Mistakes are easy to come by when painting. One of the mistakes you can make is painting in the wrong area. If it happens, wait for the paint to dry and recolor the area.



Take regular breaks
If it’s your first time or your hundredth time, make sure you take breaks after intervals. It’s not a job, it’s something you’re doing out of fun and for relaxation. You don’t have to complete it in one go.



Stay hydrated
Painting can be exhausting so stay hydrated. Also, keep the paints hydrated which means add a few drops of water to the paints. The paints used for Paint by Numbers are thick and the water helps it make it light which can be easily applied on the canvas.



Wipe those paint remains away!
Normally, people use paper towels to clean their brushes. The problem with paper towels is that they fail to completely clean the brushes as paper soaks up water faster. Hence, it is advised to use a cloth towel which will definitely get the last bit of paint stuck in the brush out.



Be comfortable with your equipment
It can be frustrating to use new equipment. A set of paint brushes come with the Paint by Numbers kit but if you’re a regular painter, you’d prefer using your own brushes (which we also recommend). If you use your paint brushes, it likely the outcome will be better compared to using a new set of brushes.



Multiple brushes
It is advised to use the three brushes that come with the kit; the small, medium and large. You can use them in any way you want. However, it is recommended not to use the same brush for all sections. You can also buy a new brush set which has up to 10 brushes.

Bonus Tip: Frame your paint by numbers or rather buy a framed (assembled) kit.



Work smart!
Before you start working on your project, take a picture of the canvas. This will help you see the tiny numbers, if you have a weak eye sight.

Oh no! Too much paint!
If you want to stay clear of this phrase make sure you don’t use too much. Just use enough to cover the area you’re painting. It’s okay if you have to dip the brush twice in the paint rather than overdoing it.

Lastly, remember you’re doing it because you want to, not because you have to. Take your time to complete your piece, even if it takes weeks. If you rush there is a chance you’ll mess it up.