If you are new to Paint by Numbers, the basic idea is simple: the canvas is divided into numbered areas and each number corresponds to a paint colour.
Quick answer: you do not need drawing experience. A good kit gives you the numbered canvas, the matching paints and suitable brushes; you work through the sections until the picture is complete.
What is Paint by Numbers?
Paint by Numbers is a structured painting activity. The composition is already printed on the canvas, which removes the blank-page problem and makes it accessible to beginners.
What comes in a Paint by Numbers kit?
Our 20×20 cm framed kits include a pre-stretched numbered canvas, acrylic paints, brushes and a wooden tabletop easel. Our 40×50 cm kits are supplied rolled with brushes and double paint quantity.
Which size should a beginner choose?
Choose 20×20 cm if you want a compact first project with minimal setup. Choose 40×50 cm if you want more canvas and a longer project. The size does not determine difficulty on its own; the amount of fine detail matters too.
How long does Paint by Numbers take?
There is no honest universal completion time. A design with large colour areas moves faster than one with many tiny sections. You can paint in short sessions and return later. Read How Long Does a 20×20 Paint by Numbers Kit Take? for a fuller answer.
How do you start?
- Choose a design you genuinely want to look at when finished.
- Set up somewhere with good light.
- Open one paint colour at a time and close it when finished.
- Use a small amount of paint and add another coat if needed.
- Work colour by colour or area by area — either approach is fine.
Should you start with light or dark colours?
There is no single required order. Some people prefer lighter colours first because darker paint can cover small mistakes later. Others work from the top of the canvas downward to avoid resting a hand on wet paint. Use the method that keeps the process comfortable.
What if the printed numbers show through?
Let the first coat dry before deciding. Some lighter shades may need another thin layer. Avoid loading the brush with a very thick coat, which can make edges harder to control.
What if the paint thickens?
Add a few drops of warm water and stir gently. Add water gradually rather than all at once.
Framed canvas or rolled canvas?
A framed canvas is ready to paint without stretching. A rolled canvas is easier to store and gives you a larger project, but it will need framing or mounting later if you want to display it that way.
Is Paint by Numbers a good screen-free hobby?
Once the kit is open, you do not need a phone, app or tutorial to continue. That is why it works well for people looking for screen-free hobbies for adults.
Can you do Paint by Numbers with friends?
Yes. Give each person their own kit and let everyone work at their own pace. See our Friends & Family Paint Night collection and paint-night guide.
What about famous paintings?
If you already love a particular artist, the Masterpiece Edit includes Van Gogh, Klimt and Monet designs.
Where should a beginner start?
Start with the 20×20 framed collection if you want the simplest physical setup, or read Small Paint by Numbers for Beginners before choosing.
Eligible non-mural designs can also be mixed in the Any 3 for £21.99 final clearance offer.
