Paint by Numbers TipsUpdated a month ago
Paint by Numbers Tips
Updated a year ago
We don’t want to brag, but we consider ourselves experts in the art of paint by numbers. So, here are our best tips and tricks to help you achieve the best results with your paint by numbers project.
What to Paint First?
We recommend starting with the smallest areas on the canvas. Pro tip: Toothpicks work exceptionally well for filling in tiny spaces! Then, move on to the larger areas.
Another valuable tip is to start at the top of the canvas and work your way down. This reduces the chance of smudging wet paint with your hand or arm, as the drying paint will always be above your working hand.
Painting one number at a time has its advantages:
✔ Prevents your paint from drying out
✔ Reduces the need to constantly open and close paint pots
✔ Minimizes the amount of brush cleaning required
Does My Paint by Numbers Kit Need Two Layers of Paint?
This depends on the color. Darker colors may only require one coat, while lighter colors might need a second layer. A good rule of thumb: If you can still see the number through the first coat of paint, consider applying another layer.
If you’d rather avoid a second coat, use correction fluid (like Tipp-Ex) to cover the number just before painting that section. Try this with one number first to see if it helps. This paint by numbers trick works perfectly—just make sure not to erase numbers too soon and forget which color goes where!
My Paint Is Getting Thick. What Should I Do?
Always seal your paint pots tightly to prevent air from drying them out. If your paint starts to thicken, add a few drops of water and stir well (a toothpick works great for this).
Do I Need an Easel for Paint by Numbers?
While an easel isn’t required, we highly recommend it if comfort is a priority or if you experience back pain. Once you try an easel for paint by numbers, you’ll feel like a pro—and it’s hard to go back to painting flat on a table!
If you don’t have an easel, consider pinning, securing, or taping your canvas to keep it flat. Foam board is a great option, as your canvas can be easily attached to it, providing a stable painting surface. Plus, securing your canvas to foam board makes it easily portable, so you can paint anywhere!
The Numbers on My Paint by Numbers Kit Are Too Small to Read
A simple solution—take a picture with your phone and zoom in when needed. This is also a great backup in case you accidentally paint over some numbers—you can refer back to the photo.
Wash Your Brush!
Lastly, don’t forget to thoroughly wash your brush before switching to a new color to prevent mixing.