What Is Paint by Numbers?
Paint by numbers is a system where a canvas is pre-divided into numbered sections, each corresponding to a specific paint color. You simply match each number to its paint and fill in the sections. It's how Bob Ross started, and it's how millions of people discover the joy of painting without needing drawing skills.
What's in a Paint by Numbers Kit?
Every DIY Art Muse kit includes:
- One pre-numbered linen canvas (40 × 50 cm / 16 × 20 in)
- Numbered paint pots — pre-mixed acrylic paints, no blending required
- Three nylon brushes in different sizes for large areas and fine details
- Reference image — a small print of the finished artwork
- Mounting hardware — screws and wall hooks
Choosing Your First Kit
For beginners, we recommend starting with an Easy difficulty design. These have larger numbered sections and fewer fine details, which means:
- You'll finish faster (a confidence boost!)
- Less frustration with tiny brush work
- You'll learn the flow of matching numbers to colors
Browse our complete collection and filter by difficulty.
Getting Started: Step by Step
- Set up your workspace: Find a flat surface with good lighting. Lay down newspaper or a craft mat.
- Open your paints: Arrange them in numerical order. Open one at a time to keep them fresh.
- Start with darker colors: Work from dark to light — this prevents lighter paints from getting muddy.
- Work in sections: Complete one numbered color across the whole canvas before moving to the next.
- Clean brushes between colors: Rinse with water and pat dry on a paper towel.
Pro Tips for Beginners
- Don't aim for perfection: Small imperfections add character to hand-painted art.
- Take breaks: Your eyes and hands need rest — paint in 30-60 minute sessions.
- Close paint pots: Acrylic paint dries fast. Keep pots sealed when not in use.
- Use enough paint: A slightly thicker coat covers the numbers better than a thin wash.
How Long Does It Take?
Most beginners complete an Easy kit in 8–15 hours (over several relaxed sessions). Intermediate and Advanced designs take longer but offer more detail and satisfaction.
Ready to Start?
Explore our paint by numbers collection and find a design that speaks to you. Every kit has everything you need to begin — no extra supplies required.