Painting by numbers is already one of the easiest ways to enjoy painting, but a few smart tricks can make the process smoother, more enjoyable, and more rewarding. Whether this is your very first kit or your fifth, these Paint by Numbers tips and tricks will help you avoid common frustrations and get more satisfaction out of your time with the canvas.
Getting Ready
- Organize Your Colors Before You Start
It may not seem important at the start, but taking a few minutes to organize your paints can save you a lot of frustration later. Once you’re focused on the canvas, it’s easy to grab the wrong pot and only notice after you’ve painted the wrong area. Line up the pots and mark the lids with a dab of color. It makes finding what you need quicker and keeps the whole process smoother.
- Frame or Stretch Your Canvas First
Painting on a loose canvas that bends or shifts under your hand can be a source of frustration. Stretching the canvas on a frame before you begin gives it tension, making brushstrokes smoother and more controlled. It also prevents the appearance of creases or bends that may occur later on when attempting to frame the finished piece.
Smarter Painting Techniques
- Work With One Color at a Time
Switching between paints is tiring, and it can leave colors dull while drying out your brushes. Focus on one color at a time to keep things simple and enjoy the sense of progress as large areas fill in.
- Start From the Top Left (or Top Right)
There’s a practical reason for this tip: avoiding smudges. If you’re right-handed and you start from the bottom right, your hand will drag across wet paint as you work. By starting from the top left (or the top right if you’re left-handed), you naturally move across the canvas without disturbing the areas you’ve already painted. It’s a simple adjustment, but it saves a lot of accidental mess.
- Don’t Skip the Small Areas
The little numbered areas may appear insignificant, yet they are the intricacies that give the finished image depth and clarity. A magnifying glass or clip-on light can make these areas easier to see, and once they’re filled, you’ll notice how much sharper and more complete the whole piece feels.
- Blend for a Smoother Look
If you want your painting to look less “paint by numbers” and more like traditional art, blending is the secret. While the paint is still wet, lightly drag one color into another at the border to create a soft gradient. This technique doesn’t require advanced skills, just patience, and it adds a natural, professional look that makes your painting stand out. It’s one of the most effective Paint by Numbers tips and tricks for improving your results.
Taking Care of Your Paints and Brushes
- Thin Paints That Are Too Thick
Paint pots can sometimes arrive a little thicker than expected, especially if they’ve been sitting for a while. Trying to work with stiff paint often leads to streaky coverage and frustration. Adding just a drop or two of water and stirring gently brings the paint back to a smooth, usable texture without ruining its color.
- Keep the Lids Closed Tight
Acrylic paint dries fast, that’s one of its strengths but also a risk if you leave the pots open too long. Getting into the habit of snapping the lids shut right after you use a color will keep your paints fresh for the entire project.
- Keep Brushes in Good Shape
A worn-out brush can make painting harder than it needs to be. Rinse your brushes well whenever you change colors, then wipe it off and shape the bristles back to a point. This keeps your colors from getting muddy and helps the brush last longer. A clean brush tip makes the difference between smooth, crisp strokes and lines that appear rough or sloppy.
Keeping Perspective
- Use Tape for Crisp Edges
Taping down the edges of your canvas has two benefits: it keeps the canvas from slipping while you paint, and it creates a sharp, clean border when you peel it off at the end. Your picture looks more professional right away with that clean edge; it’s almost like it was made in a studio. It takes little work but looks great when you frame your painting.
- Take Breaks to Step Back
Up close, every minor error appears to be much larger than it is. Step back to see the painting as a whole, and you’ll notice most minor slips fade into the bigger picture. Breaks also offer your eyes and hands a break, allowing you to return with greater focus. It’s one of the simplest methods to keep motivated and enjoy the process rather than focusing on perfection.
Final Thoughts
Painting by numbers is easy to start, but the right approach makes it far more rewarding. Keep your workspace organized, paint methodically, and take care of your supplies to make the process smoother and less frustrating. Adding finishing touches like mixing or taping the sides makes your artwork look better without needing any extra skill.
These Paint by Numbers tips and tricks are not intended to complicate the hobby; rather, they aim to help you enjoy it more and be proud of the paintings you do. Try a couple of them with your next kit, and you’ll realize how much more at ease and confident while painting.
