Starting to Paint by Numbers – what is important for beginners?
You want to start with Paint by Numbers, but you can no longer see the forest for the trees. There are so many different sets, sizes, colours and styles... Which one is suitable for you as a beginner? In this blog we will take you step by step. We explain what you should pay attention to, which sets give you a good start and how to avoid giving up before you start.
Why Paint by Numbers is so popular among beginners
Paint by Numbers is one of the most accessible creative methodscurrent hobbies. You don't have to be an artist to make something beautiful. Everything is already pre-printed, the boxes are numbered and the colours are ready for you. This makes it the perfect hobby for anyone who:
- Looking for relaxation and tranquility
- Want to get out of your head and be in the moment
- Wants to be creative without complicated techniques
- Want a tangible result – something beautiful that you have made yourself
But… not every set is equally suitable to start with. An overly detailed design or poor quality canvas can quickly take away the fun.That's why it's smart to start with a beginner-friendly set.
What makes a Paint by Numbers set suitable for beginners?
There are a number of important features that make a set 'beginner-proof'. Keep this in mind when choosing your first painting project:
- Format: A smaller to medium-sized canvas (e.g. 30x40 cm or 40x50 cm) is more manageable than a very large work.
- Number of colours: Start with a set of about 24 colours. That gives enough detail without being overwhelming.
- Clear numbering: The numbers on the canvas must be easy to read. With some cheap sets they fade quickly or are too small.
- Full package: Everything must be included: canvas, paint, brushes, sample sheet, and preferably a hook or extra paint. Then you don't have to look for anything.
- Subject: Choose something that appeals to you. Whether it is an animal, landscape or flower – fun and motivation are more important than technology.
Tip: choose quality over quantity
Cheap sets can be tempting, but when you're just starting out you want a great experience. A better quality set works better: the canvas is firmer, the paint covers better and the brushes feel nicer. Painting by Numbers Expert offers complete beginner sets that have been specially selected for a good first experience.
Themes and designs ideal for beginners
Now that you know what a beginner-friendly Paint by Numbers set should have, it's time to look at the design. Because no matter how nice or beautiful a picture is - some arejust too complicated for the first time. In this part we give you practical tips about which themes are easiest to start with and which you should skip.
What makes a design easy or difficult?
It's often in the details and colour areas. A design with large, even areas of colour is easier to paint than one full of small, detailed boxes. The amount of contrast and the type of image also play a role.
Top 5 Beginner-Friendly Themes
At Painting by Numbers Expert we see that certain themes always do well with beginners. They are clear, fun to make and the result is motivating:
- Animals – especially cats, dogs or birds with a clear background
- Flowers – such as sunflowers, tulips or roses with large areas of colour
- Landscapes – with simple horizon lines and bright contrasts
- Still lifes – such as a vase with flowers or fruit
- Abstract art – less details, more freedom
These designs usually have bright colours, clear shapes and relatively few tiny boxes. That makes them ideal for getting in and keeping painting relaxed.
What should you not choose (yet)?
Certain designs are so beautiful that you immediately want to paint them – but as a beginner you can quickly get stuck on this. Remember:
- Portraits – especially people: many details, subtle colour differences, and mistakes are quickly noticed
- Evening or night images – often many dark shades and small nuances
- Busy cityscapes – full of windows, details and mini elements
If you pick up these sets later – after you have gained some experience – you will be able to make them with much more fun and confidence.
Small successes provide motivation
A good first experience is so important. That's why it's useful to choose a set that you can complete in 1 to 2 weeks (depending on how much time you put into it). Every time you finish a part, it gives you a wonderful feeling of satisfaction. And the faster you see results, the more fun it becomes!
Example: our most popular starter set
For example our Cat on the windowsill – a favourite among first-time buyers. With 24 colours, a size of 40x50 cm and a clear design, it is a great first step in your painting adventure.
Which materialis best for beginners?
Well begun is half done – especially with Paint by Numbers. As a beginner, you want to have fun with your first project, without the frustrations of bad paint or a wafer-thin canvas. In this part we explain which materials really make the difference and what you should pay attention to when choosing your first set.
Canvas: the basis of every work of art
The canvas is the surface on which you paint. With cheaper sets this is often a kind of thin paper-like cloth. That may seem fine, but it can quickly wrinkle, tear orbulging – and that doesn't work well.
Preferably choose:
- Linen canvas – firmer and smoother, stays tight better
- Pre-printed pattern – with clear lines and easy-to-read numbers
- 40x50 cm size – large enough for a nice result, but not too overwhelming
Tip: at Painting by Numbers Expert we use an extra strong quality canvas, which almost feels like canvas. Perfect for beginners!
Paint: cheap is often not opaque
The paint in your kit is just as important as the canvas. Some budget sets contain watery acrylic paint that covers poorly. You then keep seeing stripes or numbers, or have to apply multiple layers to get it right - that's a waste of time and energy.
You can recognize good paint by:
- Opaque, creamy structure – so you can paint well the first time
- –that do not dry out quickly
- Colours corresponding to the example – so that the end result is correct
At Painting by Numbers Expert we supply numbered paint pots that fit perfectly with the design, and we offer free reorder of missing colours. So don't worry if a colour runs out or accidentally falls over!
Brushes: don't underestimate this!
Your brush is your most important tool. Yet in many cheap sets of brushes you see:
- be too hard or too soft
- losing hair
- uncomfortable in the hand
A good brush makes painting smoother, more precise and more pleasant. For beginners we recommend a set with:
- 3 brushes – great for large surfaces and details
- Comfortable grip – so your hand doesn't get tired quickly
Accessories: not required, but useful
Some extras make painting just that little bit more enjoyable, especially when you're just starting out. Remember:
- A sample sheet as reference
- A bracket to hang your work
- A storage box for your paint
- A LED lamp for better visibility in small areas
Please note: these are not mandatory, but can improve your experience. Feel free to start your first project simply - you can always expand later.
How do you, as a beginner, successfully complete your first Paint by Numbers project?
You have chosen the right Paint by Numbers set, the canvas is ready and you have started. Super! But how do you ensure that you actually complete the project and can look at it with pride? In this final part we will help you get started with useful tips, common pitfalls and smart tricks to keep painting going - all aimed at beginners.
1. Start with the correct setting
Many beginners want a perfect end result right away. But remember: Paint by Numbers is not a competition, it is relaxation. It's not just about the end result, but especially about the process.
- Give yourself space to practice
- Don't expect everything to go smoothly right away
- Enjoy every box you colour - no matter how small
Painting is meditation in colour. Put on a nice playlist, have a cup of tea and sit back. This way, painting becomes a moment of peace in your day.
2. Work in small steps
A common mistake: start enthusiastically, but lose the overview halfway through. The best tip for beginners is to work in chunks:
- Choose one colour and always work from left to right, or from top to bottom
- Use a colour per session, so you don't have to do the dishes all the time
- Start with the larger areas, thatmotivates because you see results quickly
Tip: use a coloured marker to keep track of which boxes you have already completed on the sample sheet. This way you keep an overview and get a visual sense of progress.
3. Are you losing motivation? Change something small
Everyone has a slump now and then. Are your brushes in the cupboard for a while? No problem. But do you want to move on? Then try the following:
- Paint 10 minutes a day, without pressure
- Create a nice corner with your canvas so that it is in view
- Share your progress with others – viaWhatsApp, social media or family
At Painting by Numbers Expert we love seeing your creations. Feel free to tag us on Instagram – we regularly share our clients' work for some extra motivation!
4. The final details: finishing and being proud
You've painted the last box – congratulations! But how do you ensure that your work of art really feels finished?
- Allow the work to dry thoroughly – at least 24 hours
- Consider a layer of varnish for extra shine and protection
- Hang your painting with the supplied hanging hook
And don't forget: you can be proud! Not only have you created something beautiful, you have also taken time for yourself, found peace and learned something.
Ready to choose your first set?
Are you excited? Then this is the time to choose your first set. View our collection suitable for beginners, with carefully curated sets that are ideal to get started. Or choosea own photo if you want to create something very personal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best Paint by Numbers set for beginners?
A set with 24 to 36 colours, sturdy canvas, clear numbering and preferably a size of 40x50 cm. Choose an image that appeals to you and is clear.
How long does it take to complete a Paint by Numbers project?
That depends on the size and number of colours. A standard set of 40x50 cm takes an average of 15 to 25 hours. You can spread this outseveral days or weeks.
Is Paint by Numbers suitable for children?
Yes, but choose child-friendly sets with larger compartments and fewer colours. Painting by Numbers Expert has separate sets for children.
What if I run out of paint?
At Painting by Numbers Expert you can reorder free colours via our customer service. This way you can always finish your work of art.
Can I also have my own photo taken as a beginner?
Yes, but choose a sharp, high-contrast photo without too many details. We are happy to help you choose the right size and colour scheme.
