Painting by numbers (number painting) or Paint By Numbers is art where the numbers marked on the canvas to be painted correspond to a specific color. When each shape marked with a number is painted, the small shapes form a complete picture.
Read our instructions for framing/stretching the canvas here.
Before starting to paint
Before starting to paint, it is good to ensure the suitability of the space and tools. The painting area should be comfortable and well-lit; the larger and more detailed the picture to be painted, the smaller the numbers and shapes may be. In particularly detailed works, a magnifying glass and additional lighting may be needed, and most hobbyists use, for example, a headlamp while painting!
Attention should also be paid to the worktable and chair, as prolonged bending can harm the back and neck. Taking sufficient breaks and changing positions is good for work ergonomics.
Get a small cup of water and enough paper towels for the workstation. Keeping the brush moist is very important throughout the painting process, and the brush should be cleaned well between different colors. Also, paint with only one color at a time to prevent the paints from drying or mixing when open.
Time to start painting
Paintbynumbers.fi packages include instructions, brushes, numbered paints, canvas, and a wall hook. Small paint pots may not look very abundant, but they contain enough paint to complete the picture. When starting to paint, many find it tempting to start painting the picture so that part of the picture is completed at a time. However, this requires a lot of brush cleaning, and it is recommended to paint preferably one color at a time from top to bottom.
If it is the first picture to be painted by numbers, it is also recommended to start painting from large shapes. This way, you can calmly practice using the brush and paint, and moving to small details won't feel as difficult later. Very small details sometimes feel insurmountable even with the smallest brushes – in this case, try using a toothpick instead of a brush!
Painting step by step:
- Open the package and place the paints, brushes, and canvas on a flat surface
- Unroll the canvas
- Tape the canvas to a flat and, if possible, movable surface (e.g., drawing board). When the canvas is securely in place, it makes working easier.
- Fill a small cup with clean water and have enough paper towels on the table. Paper towels help in cleaning the brushes and wiping off excess paint
- Dip the tip of the brush in the paint and start painting! Dipping only the tip keeps the brushes in better condition and prevents paint from drying at the base of the bristles. Paint drying on the bristles damages the brush and may make painting details more difficult
- Start painting the picture first with darker colors and larger shapes. Also, move from top to bottom while painting; this makes your work easier and reduces the risk of paint spreading
- If paint gets into the wrong sections, you can try wiping it off remove paint, for example, with a cotton swab or a piece of paper. If the paint has dried, you can also use a white correction pen to cover the mark or paint over it with the correct color.
- Remember to wash the brush thoroughly before switching to another color! Dip the brush in water and wipe on a paper towel until no old color comes off the brush. Thorough washing of brushes is also very important when you finish painting
Framing the fabric
The fabric can be framed before or after painting, this is mainly a matter of taste but we recommend stretching the fabric onto frames before painting so that the finished painting is not damaged. Read more detailed instructions on stretching the fabric here.
Where can I buy paint by numbers products?
You can find a wide selection of high-quality paint by numbers products here. Each package includes everything you need.
You can also order a custom paint by numbers with your own picture!
With these tips, you'll definitely get started with painting by numbers!
