If you have never tried it, you may wonder how paint by numbers works and whether you can really end up with a painting you want to hang on the wall. The answer is simple, and that is exactly why it is so popular.
The idea in one sentence
A picture is divided into many small shapes, every shape gets a number, and every number belongs to one paint color. Fill each shape with its color and the picture appears.
What you get
- A canvas with the outline of the picture and a number in every section
- Small pots of acrylic paint, each labeled with its number and already mixed
- Brushes in different sizes (three in a Judy Paint kit)
A short history
Paint by numbers kits became a craze in the United States in the early 1950s. The commercial artist Dan Robbins developed them for the Palmer Paint Company in Detroit, and the kits sold in the millions. Originally many were aimed at children, but adults quickly discovered them too. Today kits for adults are more detailed, with more colors and modern designs.
How to paint with numbers: three tips
- Use only a little water. Acrylic paint can be loosened with a drop of water if it feels thick, but too much water makes the color thin and patchy.
- Follow the numbers. Double-check the number on the pot before each section.
- Read the guide. The printed reference picture shows you what the result should look like. Keep it next to you while you paint.
For a full walkthrough, read our step-by-step guide.
Why adults love it
Many people find the slow, focused work calming after a busy day. There is no blank-canvas pressure, and the result looks impressive. And with a custom kit, the picture can be your own photo: your pet, your family or a favorite place.
Types of paint by numbers kits
- Design kits: ready-made motifs from beaches to anime, in 12×16 or 16×20 in.
- Custom photo kits: your own photo on a 16×20 in canvas, in 24, 36 or 48 colors.
- Mini sets: six small 6×8 in canvases in one set.
- Kids kits: friendly motifs with clear sections.
Paint by numbers vs. other craft kits
- Diamond painting: instead of paint, you place small resin diamonds on a symbol chart.
- Pearl painting: 3D pearls are pressed onto a printed canvas, with no paint or brushes.
- Punch needle: yarn is punched through pre-printed fabric to create soft, textured art.
All of them follow the same idea: a guided pattern that turns into a finished piece, step by step.
Frequently asked questions
Is paint by numbers only for kids?
Not at all. Adult kits have more sections and colors. We also have kids designs with friendly motifs.
What size are the canvases?
Our design kits come in 12×16 in or 16×20 in, custom photo kits in 16×20 in, and mini sets with six 6×8 in canvases.