Paint by Numbers is no longer just a simple pastime but has become a popular, relaxing art trend worldwide. With paintings designed according to numbers available, anyone can create an eye-catching artwork without professional painting skills.
However, to make your painting look impressive and professional, you need to know some tips in the coloring process. In this article, Wander Painting will share 10 tips to help you improve your painting experience and create a work of art to be proud of.
1. Select suitable Paint by Numbers kits
The first and foremost step in deciding your painting experience is to choose the right kit that fits your level and interests.
If you are a beginner, you should prioritize simple designs with just a few details and a small size. Mini designs help you get familiar with coloring following numbers without pressure.
Conversely, if you’re experienced, you can challenge yourself with famous artistic paintings, detailed landscapes, or portraits with a high level of difficulty. In Wander Painting, it’s easy to find a variety of collections, such as:
- Natural landscapes: Teepee Cabins - Route 66 Collection, Starlit Geysers
- Animals: Moose - National Park Wildlife, Golden Retriever - Colorful Dog
- Classic art
- American spirit: Fourth of July Porch, Liberty Lighthouse View
- Custom photo
The most important thing is to select designs that you’re interested in and desire to finish.
2. Make the canvas flat before painting
Most paintly paint by numbers canvases are rolled during delivery, so they often have wrinkles. A flat surface will help colors look even and more beautiful. You can:
- Put heavy books on canvas for a few hours
- Iron the back side with low temperature
- Use a steamer to soften wrinkles
Notice: Don’t apply a high temperature because it may affect the shape of the canvas.
3. Cover a layer of transparent Gesso
This is a tip that many professional painters apply.
A thin layer of this gesso helps:
- Paint surface save colors better
- Acrylic paint cover more even
- Make colors smoother and more beautiful
- Reduce the sense of a too slippery canvas
Besides that, this coverage also helps numbers on canvas not appear too clear after completion.
4. Color one by one
A common mistake of beginners is to paint too fast or to change colors constantly.
The most effective way is:
- Color one by one
- Complete each small section
- Wait for the paint layer to dry before covering another one
- This method helps the painting be clean, smudge-free, and look more professional.
- If the paint color starts thickening and gets dry, you just need to add some water drops and stir gently so that it becomes smooth again.
5. Start with bright colors
One very effective tip is to always start with bright colors before turning to dark colors.
The reason is that it:
- Be easier to fix mistakes
- Reduce smudging
- Create better depth for your painting
Before changing into dark colors, you should ensure that paintbrushes are washed completely to avoid paint colors from being murky or dirty.
6. Blend colors to make a smooth effect
If you want your painting to look softer and have more depth, you can try the color blending technique.
When the paint layer is still wet, you should:
- Use a clean paintbrush to draw a boundary between two colors
- Create a color transition effect naturally
- Make your painting look more vibrant
For small details, it’s necessary to use fine-tipped paintbrushes to make lines sharper.
7. Use many types of paintbrushes
Not every section in the painting fits with a type of paintbrush.
You should prepare:
- Large-sized paintbrushes for large areas
- Small-sized paintbrushes for details
- Fine-tipped paintbrushes for thin lines
A new, good-quality paintbrush will make strokes neat and more exact a lot.
8. Keep the working space tidy
A clean space will help you concentrate and enjoy the creative process better.
You should prepare:
- Paper towel to wash paintbrushes
- Tray to put color boxes on
- Sufficient lighting
- Tablecloths to prevent smudging the paint color
Moreover, washing paint brushes for acrylic paint regularly also helps colors appear more beautiful and clearer.
9. Fix common mistakes
During the painting process, sometimes you can encounter problems such as:
- Too thick paint color
- Colors don’t cover numbers completely
- Smudge colors into other areas
Don’t worry! You can solve it easily by:
- Paint the second or third layer
- Use a white gel pen to cover the numbers
- Add some water drops to dry paint
- Use Q-tips to fix minor mistakes
paint by numbers poster doesn’t require absolute perfection. Most importantly, you have a chance to enjoy your creative process.
10. Complete and preserve the painting
After completion, let the painting dry out completely before you frame it or seal varnish.
A layer of polish seal will help:
- Protect colors
- Strengthen durability
- Make the painting stand out much more
You can also add a few personal details like:
- Increase the number of highlight areas
- Bolster the dark side
- Regulate colors slightly
Small details will help your painting become unique and contain your own imprints.
painting by numbers is not only an entertaining activity but also a great way to relax, reduce stress, and explore your innovative ability. With just a few simple tips like choosing the right painting kits, using suitable paintbrushes, and painting step by step patiently, you can create stunning works of art as true artists do. Let’s get started on your art journey today with Wander Painting and turn each number into an inspiring masterpiece.