10 Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Painting

Paint by Numbers allows anyone to create the perfect artwork—whether you're an advanced painter, a beginner, or even a child. With Paint by Numbers, you can express your creativity, find inspiration, and embark on your own artistic journey.

Each Paint by Numbers set comes with all the necessary painting tools, making the process as simple and enjoyable as possible. To help you get the most out of your painting experience, we've put together the most important tips & tricks for creating the perfect masterpiece.

Tip 1: Proper Lighting

Before you start painting, it's important to ensure good lighting. Natural daylight from a window is the best option, as it allows you to see colors in their true form.

If natural light isn't available, table lamps can be a great alternative. We recommend using two daylight lamps—one floor lamp positioned at the front right of the painting and an arm lamp illuminating it from above.

Tip 2: The Ideal Workspace

Along with good lighting, you should set up a workspace that is suitable for painting. Cover your table and floor with newspaper to prevent spills and stains. If you need painting gear like an apron, check out our Paint by Numbers accessories.

Tip 3: Even Paint Application

A common beginner mistake is applying paint unevenly, which can result in unsightly borders between colors. Always try to apply paint as evenly as possible within each numbered section.

Tip 4: Use the Correct Colors

This might seem obvious, but sometimes mistakes happen, and the wrong color is used. If this happens, don’t worry! Simply let the incorrect paint dry and then apply the correct color over it. You may need to apply multiple layers to fully cover the mistake.

Tip 5: Less Paint is More

When using acrylic paints, less is often more. Instead of applying thick layers, use only as much paint as necessary. If too much paint is applied, it can create unwanted texture or ridges when it dries.

For added depth, you can apply multiple thin layers in certain areas, making the artwork appear more vibrant and dynamic.

Tip 6: Keep Your Brushes Clean

Each Paint by Numbers set includes brushes specifically designed for your painting needs. In our kids’ collection, for example, we provide brushes tailored to fit small hands.

To keep your brushes in top condition, rinse them frequently while painting and dry them on a paper towel. Gently swirl them in water rather than pressing too hard against the container, as excessive pressure can damage the bristles.

Tip 7: Two Water Containers Are Better Than One

We recommend using at least two water containers—one for the initial rinse and another for a final clean. This helps prevent paint from building up at the base of the bristles, which could cause them to fray and become unusable over time.

Tip 8: Frame Your Artwork

If you want to enhance your finished painting, consider adding a frame. You can order a frame along with your Paint by Numbers set for a professional touch. If you prefer a frameless look, you can simply paint the edges to blend with the artwork.

Tip 9: Mistakes Can Be Fixed

Mistakes happen, especially for beginners, but they’re usually fixable! Paint splatters, for example, can be touched up after the painting has dried. Use a fine brush or even a toothpick to gently cover any unwanted marks.

Tip 10: Apply a Protective Varnish

To preserve your finished artwork, apply a final layer of varnish. This not only protects the painting from fading but also enhances the colors, giving your masterpiece a more vibrant and professional finish. A single coat is enough to achieve this effect.

By following these tips, your Paint by Numbers experience will be even more enjoyable, and your artwork will turn out beautifully! Happy painting! 🎨✨