Top 24 Paint by Numbers Tips and Tricks

Are you looking for a sensational activity to indulge in with your better half?

How about paint by numbers?

There is nothing more therapeutic and interactive than making art, and it gets better with someone you love.

Order yourself a custom paint by numbers kit now and add beautiful colors to your relationship.

But before that, we have these top 24 paint by number tips and tricks that will make your painting experience even better!

These tips below will help you achieve the ultimate result with a well-painted picture.

This way, your painting could turn into a personalized gift as a memento of an amazing day spent together.

And NO, this is not a painting of my wife and her personal trainer :)

1. Keep Your Canvas Sturdy

When painting by numbers, you need a strong surface because the chances of spillage are incredibly high.

Also, with a fine texture, you will be able to focus more on the numbers, and you won't go out of lines and numbers.

We suggest having a frame or foam board with your canvas set; it will allow you to mount your canvas before starting with the paint.

Keeping your canvas straight will help you concentrate on a more enjoyable adventure.

Also, using a foam board will allow you to paint in any location you desire, whether it's a painting picnic outside or painting with some tunes on in your room.

Foam board will help you place your canvas anywhere according to your liking.

On the other hand, a frame with your canvas or paint sheet will help you keep it tight and in place.

This is very important because you can't afford any lines on your sheet, as it will affect all the markings in between.

2. A Clean Area Will help You Focus

Sure, paint dates are quite messy and fun, and it's good to get immersed in art every once in a while; it's quite restorative too.

But having a mess before you even start can tire you and your partner very quickly.

Whenever planning on having a paint date, make sure you tidy up the place you plan to keep the canvas on.

We would suggest you use an old newspaper to cover up the floor and nearby areas, so the splashes from the paint don't get your furniture or area dirty.

You don't want your day to turn into a paint cleaning day, right?

3. Tidy Brushes Are Not an Option

If you're getting yourself a custom paint by number kit, then it probably comes with a set of brushes, but there's no harm in adding some of your own.

If you have old brushes and you forgot to clean them out, and now the paint is stuck onto the brush hair, don't worry; you can still make use of them.

Clean the old brushes out by using nail or paint remover and then keep them in water for a while.

Before you start with your painting, be sure to keep a water bowl along with a wet towel with you.

This will help you clean your brush when changing colors, and a towel will aid you in drying off the water off the brush.

A wet towel can be of use when you want a lighter shade of the same color; just wipe off the excess paint rather than dipping the brush in water.

A pro tip for beginners: when you get new brushes from your kit, keep them in water for an hour or two; this will allow the brush hair to open up for a better stroke.

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Simplify your painting process with our revolutionary brush cleaner, found on our website, use "BLOGPOST10" for $10 off on your first order.

4. Use a Variety of Brushes

There's no such thing as too many brushes; you can always use your own along with your kit.

Having a good variety of brushes will help you paint more freely.

The best thing about working with a variety of brushes is that you have brushes available in every size.

Brush sizing is very important in painting, especially when you're painting by numbers, because there are very thin lines and details in between that you can't miss.

Having several brushes will help you achieve a more polished result.

You will be able to color in between narrow lines with thin brushes and cover large spaces with thick ones.

Detailing will be much easier and more enjoyable than hectic and time-consuming, and you will be interested in working with shades once you have plenty of brushes.

Also, a variety of brushes means different textures in the brush hair.

You can find brushes with different textures and shapes of brush hair at your local art store; they all produce different types of strokes and paint differently.

Choose brushes according to your picture to make it frame-worthy.

5. Don’t Hesitate to Use Clear Gesso

If you are a beginner or working with a partner, your level of concentration may not be the same as an expert's.

Keep in mind that acrylics can be challenging to work with, especially on a slippery surface.

We would suggest you stiffen up your canvas with translucent gesso.

Clear gesso adds roughness to the surface.

It allows the surface to have a matte finish, and your acrylic paint adheres better to the surface with gesso.

Using clear gesso is also better because it doesn't hide the numbers and lines and doesn't interfere with your painting.

Clear gesso also gives a matte finish to your overall result.

This gives a very professional look to your painting.

If you have difficulty buying clear gesso, don't worry.

You can make clear gesso at home with your partner.

6. Cover the Numbers

Most of the time, when you finish painting a beautiful piece with perfect colors, the result may still not be something you can give as a personalized gift.

This is often due to the numbers still showing through the paint.

You can quickly fix this issue by using a white paint marker.

A white paint marker will completely cover the numbers or lines on the canvas, but make sure you use the white paint marker before you start painting over the numbers.

This is because you won’t be able to use the marker on your finished result or wet paint.

Make sure you choose your paint and shade wisely.

Once you have chosen the shade for the specific number, cover it with a marker and paint it.

We would suggest you get at least two paint markers when working with your partner, as there are several markings on the canvas.

In case you run out of paint markers, white paint can also work as an excellent cover for the markings, but it could cause your paint to run.

So, it's better to plan and get your supplies beforehand.

Using a white paint marker will also make your painting look expert-level, like you painted it on your own! Perfect for a personalized gift.

7. Flow Improver Along with Water is a Must-Have!

When you buy a custom paint-by-number kit, the type of paint you are most likely to get is acrylic paint.

Acrylic paint is an excellent choice for painting on canvas, but it dries out very easily, within minutes or hours.

Keep an eye on your paint; the best way to keep your paint fresh and work with new shades is to take the paint out on a painted board.

Additionally, don't hesitate to use just two to three drops of water in your paint before starting to paint.

This will not only improve the paint quality, but it will also make the paint appear more polished and shiny.

If your paint is starting to get extremely hard and tough to work with, then just a single drop of flow improver will work its magic.

It’s not important to use a flow improver but using one will make your task easier and less hectic.

Make sure not to overuse, or else your paint will start to flow, and that will ruin your canvas entirely.

8. Have Fun, and Make Mistakes!

Painting is supposed to be fun, no matter what level you are doing it on.

Don’t be stressed out if you make any kind of mistake in choosing the right paint for a specific area or something similar.

Be patient and let that area dry out completely.

Yes, let it dry out, don't ever wipe your canvas with a wet cloth or brush, this will not only smudge your paint all over the place.

But it will also damage your canvas; after all, it's just paper, a wet cloth will wear it out completely.

Once your paint is dried out, repaint it with the right color if the initial color is lighter; if the background color is still showing, then try a thicker layer.

If the initial color is, however, darker, then paint white over it, or you always have the option to use a paint marker over it and then color your shade.

Whatever you paint correct, make sure you are not overdoing it.

Overdoing anything, like using a lot of paint on a specific part of your paint canvas will spoil the space completely and make it look like spit-up.

Painting is supposed to be fun and relaxing

If you make a mistake, then no need to stress yourself out; there is always a solution because it's a flexible hobby.

9. Keep Your Instructions and Camera Close

This is very common when it comes to numbers to the number painting; it's easy to get lost in numbers and lines once you start painting.

If you have a miniature instruction paper with your kit, then it's well and good, but

If you don't have one or if it's hard to read, then it's better to take some pictures of your canvas before you start.

This is helpful because if you get lost in painting at any point, you will have the option of going back to your instruction picture and starting over.

The best tip to stay with the instructions is to start from the top and not to rush.

When you start from the top, the picture will start to form; this way, it will be easier for you to paint efficiently with little help from the instructions.

Don't rush out, yes, it's a paint date, but you don't have to finish on the same day.

You can designate certain chunks for the next day, too, to make it more fun and easier for you to handle.

10. Practice Blurring Shades in Between

When you are working with painting with numbers, the worst issue that we have heard from most clients is that the painting looks sharp and blocky rather than smooth and natural.

This is because you are painting along the lines, which can't be ignored; the best solution to this is blurring the shades on the line; this way, the painting will look more aesthetic and natural than a child’s coloring book.

But, we will suggest you practice blurring on a piece of paper before you try it out on your canvas.

It will take a few tries before you get ahold of it but trust us, and you won't regret learning it.

11. Invest Money into the Best Paint by Numbers Sets

How to paint by numbers like a professional for a marvelous piece of art? Here we are going to share a pro tip that will make any of your projects a fantastic piece of art. The finest quality paint by numbers set is the first requirement for a unique piece of art. Here at Personalize Everything, we have high-quality paints and brushes suitable for all kinds of projects.

More so, if you have a favorite picture of your loved one and you want it to be memorable, we can do the job for you.

12. Blending Is Must

Why do the professionally made paintings look so unique and real? Let us tell you the reason behind it. The smooth blending of the colors in the custom paint by numbers creates a unique blend of reality into the picture. How to paint by numbers for a flawless and unique look of the painting?  In the professional pictures, you can notice that the sharp edges are perfectly blended with the other parts of the image. For the overall smooth finish of the image, you need to softly blend the color of the picture. You can ideally blend the corners of the image by moving the brush back and forth for a flawless look.

When it comes to the paint by numbers, tips and tricks, blending is among the most important ones. The reason is the more your blend, the more it will look natural. The pro tip about the blending is to start with the smaller area of the image and then move towards the larger parts of the picture. Your practice in the smaller area of the image will help you to paint the larger part with perfection.

When the paint is wet, blend it with a soft hand for a smooth finish of the corners. Smaller size brushes are more suitable for the small areas of the image. We have a custom paint for number kit for you that includes different sizes of brushes. An amazing tip for doing paint by numbers is to frame your canvas before you start painting. A solid frame around the picture will prevent it from wrapping, and you can continue with ease.

You can shop for the best quality custom paint by numbers kit. Our kit comes with a solid frame, so you can prevent any unwanted warping.

13. Add Your Taste to Your Painting

The custom paint by numbers kit comes with specific instructions about how to create your own showpiece of art. But, sometimes it's ok to break the rules. Although custom painting by numbers is all about following a step-by-step guide, you can bring innovation to your painting. If you want to change a color theme, then you can add a color of your choice to your painting. 

If you are sure that your guess can create a unique showpiece, then why not? You are free to add your taste as the art is not limited to specific designs and colors. Just suppose that you want to gift a custom painting by numbers as a gift to your loved one. You know about the likes and dislikes of a specific person in the color theme.

So you are free to add the touch of the color scheme to your painting according to the taste of the special person. Incorporate your creativity into your painting, and give it to the love of your life. A beautiful showpiece with your creativity will make your connection strong. These tips for painting by numbers are only a basic guide, you can bring your taste to your painting. Your canvas is only specific for you, so you are free to do whatever you want.

14. Choose A Cozy Workplace

No doubt that the environment of the place has a great impact on your mental tasks. When you are involved in the painting by numbers, try to choose a calm and comfortable place. It's not only about your comfort but also the working environment affects your end showpiece. A calm place will enable you to focus on your custom painting by numbers with concentration, and you will get the best results. 

You can either choose to work in the garden with greenery around you for fresh vibes. The green color around you will give you some pleasant vibes, and you can complete your task with better concentration. 

15. Take Your Time

‘'Patience'' is among the pro tips for paint by numbers. There is no need to hurry for the completion of your painting. A minor mistake in a hurry can ruin your efforts. When you are working on your canvas, make sure that the colors of a specific area are dried before moving towards the next section. If you want a perfect result, never rush while painting. Painting is an art, and it requires thoughtfulness and mindfulness for a perfect masterpiece.    

16. Clean Your Brushes

Don't use the brushes without cleaning when you move from one part of the painting to another. Do you want a blend of two colors in one section of the painting? The answer is obviously no. Your brushes should be cleaned thoroughly before moving towards the next color. For a beautiful and vibrant color scheme in your painting, you need to wash your tools after every step. It will give fresh color to your canvas without the tint of other colors. More so, cleaning at regular intervals will make your tools and brushes go in the long run. 

The amazing tips on doing paint by numbers for adults help the painter a lot and keep the area neat. Paint by numbers beginners should learn about the importance of caring for the brushes and supplies. All good artists know that clean supplies and brushes are necessary for a great masterpiece. You have to take care of every tool in your painting and clean them after short intervals. Cover your paint kit, keep the brushes clean, and practice good brush maintenance are among the top tips for doing paint by numbers.

17. Try to Color Accurately

Another key tip is to use the correct amount of paint for the specific part. Too much paint color on the painting will give a rough texture. First, you can outline the borders with a thin brush and then paint the inner area. It will act as a borderline, and the colors of the different parts will not merge. The correct amount of paint in a specific area will prevent the flow of color to another part. 

High-quality paint brushes are available here for a professional touch. Our custom paint by numbers kit comes with three pieces of brushes. But, if you want some extra brushes for a fine and more professional look, our high-quality brushes can do the best for your painting.

18. Moves from Darker to Lighter Shade

The tips for doing paint by numbers include that you must fill the darker color first in the painting. For a neat and clean look of the painting, you need to move from the darker shade to the lighter tones. Observe your paint by numbers kit and start with a darker shade. When the dark parts of the painting are dried, then fill the lighter area of the painting. It will prevent the tint of color in another part, and the result will be a flawless showpiece. The best way to paint by numbers is to start in the middle of the picture, working your way out, so as not to miss a spot.

19. Paint the Number Indicators

The number indicators are a helpful guide in the first layer of coating. It helps you to follow a color scheme and makes your painting easy. But, once you are done with the first layer of coat, it's time to cover the number of indicators. When you cover the number indicators with a paint color, the result will be a neat and clean painting. Once the first coat of the color is dried, coat another layer of the paint to completely cover the number indicators of the painting.

20. Cover Your Paint Kit Set

Always keep in mind that when you have applied the paint on your brush, cover your paint cups as soon as possible. It will help your paint kit to go in the long run and keeps the color vibrant. The exposure of the paint to the air leads to the dried color, and your custom paint by numbers kit will be of no use. Moreover, the dust practices in the paint kit will make the colors dull and dry.

If you want to go outside for a break, make sure that your custom paint by numbers kit is covered.

21. Keep Your Work Location Clean and Tidy

Your workplace needs to be clean for a spotless painting. It is useful to keep your work area clean with some old newspapers. It will prevent the chances of spots of colors on your painting. The stains of different colors on the picture give a very negative impression to the overall look of the painting. More so, it is not only about painting, a tidy area helps you to remain concentrated on your task.

22. Use Correct Amount of Paint

You have probably heard about ''A Little Goes a Long Way''. The same is the case with the paint when you are painting a custom paint by numbers kit. One of the most important paint by numbers tips is to apply the correct amount of paint on your brushes. You need to learn how much paint is required for a specific part of the painting. When you apply over the amount of paint on your brush, it makes your painting parts messy. 

More so, a thick coating in the first layer of paint does not look good. You have to give your painting a double coat with the correct amount of paint.

23. Extra Coats Is a Pro Tip

When it comes to the general rule of painting, two coats in the same area are enough. If you are done with the two coats in all parts of the painting, and still you notice that something is missing, then it's time to add some extra paint. A lovely quality time with the pictorial formats as well as the possibility of creating a fantastic masterpiece of art without hard and fast rules makes it a popular trend for beginners and hobby lovers. Paint by numbers allows you to express your emotion with freedom of mind. You can portray your feelings, emotions, and desires on the canvas, but with the right coats, you can create a marvelous piece of art.

 Personalize Everything has custom paint by numbers kit made from high quality and finest material. We provide you with enough paint in our kit that you can enjoy many years of painting and art. The recommendation is to start from the top of the painting and then move down to avoid smudging. When you are done with a single coat of paint, it's time to take a deep view of the details, whether you need some extra coats or not. 

If you are noticing that certain areas of your painting are pale or streaky, you should add some extra coats for your painting to be bolder, smoother, and polished.

24. Correct Paint = Correct Number

What is one of the pro paint-by-numbers tips to get started on your own ''paint by numbers'' project? This might seem like a simple tip, but most people end up messing up and confusing themselves. With just a little effort and practice, every one of us can create a unique and elegant masterpiece of art. It is only a misconception that painting by numbers is only for professionals with the skills. One way to perfectly finish your paint by numbers project is to avoid switching from one part of the painting to another. 

When you have applied a specific paint on your brushes, try to cover all the parts that require the same color. It's time to clean your brush, and then apply the second paint and move on.

Conclusion
Painting is probably the best activity that you could choose for a date day, especially in between the current situation of Covid, where going out is dangerous rather than fun.

So relax with your loved one, take a day off everything and chill out by paint by numbers.