Your complete guide to finding the best DIY painting kits online — from cosy weekend art to heartfelt custom gifts.

What Is Paint by Numbers?

If you’ve ever wanted to paint but felt you “can’t draw,” Paint By Numbers is your answer. Each kit comes with a pre-printed canvas divided into numbered sections, matching numbered paint pots, and brushes — all you do is fill the numbers. The result? A stunning piece of art that looks like you’ve been painting for years.

Australians are snapping up these kits for good reason: they’re relaxing, rewarding, and genuinely fun for every age group. Whether you want paint by numbers for adults after a long work week, or a screen-free creative activity for the kids, there’s a kit made for you.

Why Australians Love DIY Painting Kits

DIY painting kits have exploded in popularity across Australia — and for good reason. They combine mindfulness with creativity, giving you a structured activity that still lets your personality shine. Here’s what makes them so popular:

Stress Relief

Painting is proven to reduce cortisol levels. Even 30 minutes a day can dramatically reduce anxiety.

No Skill Needed

As art kits for beginners, Paint by Numbers removes the fear of the blank canvas completely.

Great Gift Idea

Custom kits with personal photos make unforgettable birthday, Mother’s Day, or Christmas gifts.

All Ages Welcome

From junior kits with large sections for children to intricate 50-colour canvases for adults.

Best Paint by Numbers for Adults

When shopping for paint by numbers for adults, look for kits with higher colour counts (20–50 shades), linen or cotton canvas for a premium finish, and detailed subjects like landscapes, portraits, animals, or abstract art. Popular themes in Australia include coastal scenes, native wildlife (think kookaburras and kangaroos), and botanical prints that look beautiful framed on a wall.

A quality adult kit should include: pre-printed numbered canvas, labelled acrylic paints, 3+ brush sizes, and a reference image. Premium kits also come with a wooden frame so you can display your finished piece straight away.

Paint by Numbers for Kids

Paint by numbers for kids use larger number sections, non-toxic water-based paints, and fun subjects like dinosaurs, unicorns, space scenes, and cartoon animals. They’re a brilliant way to develop fine motor skills and colour awareness — all while keeping little ones off screens.

For kids aged 6–10, look for kits with fewer than 15 colours and bold outlines. Teens can handle the same adult-level kits with intricate details. Always check that paints are labelled non-toxic and washable for younger children.

Custom Paint by Numbers — Turn Your Photo Into Art

One of the most exciting options when you Buy paint by numbers online in Australia is the custom kit. Upload any photo — your dog, family portrait, wedding photo, or favourite holiday snap — and it gets converted into a numbered painting kit just for you. These personalised kits are among the most popular gift items in Australia right now.

Tips for a great custom kit: use a high-resolution photo with good lighting, avoid images with very complex backgrounds, and choose a canvas size of at least 40×50cm for enough detail.

5 Beginner Tips for Paint by Numbers Success

Start from the top

Work top to bottom so your hand doesn’t smear wet paint below you.

Dark colours first

Paint dark shades before lighter ones so any bleed is hidden underneath.

Thin your paint

Add a drop of water to thick acrylic paint for smoother coverage in small areas.

Two thin coats

Apply two thin layers rather than one thick blob — the result looks far more professional.

Seal when done

Use a clear acrylic varnish spray to protect your finished painting from dust and UV fading.

Where to Buy Paint by Numbers in Australia

The easiest and most affordable way is to buy paint by numbers online. Australian-based online stores offer faster shipping, no import duties, and easy returns. Look for stores that stock a wide range of DIY painting kits — from beginner to advanced — and offer custom options. When comparing, check canvas quality (linen beats cheap polyester), paint quantity (do they include enough?), and customer reviews.

As Art kits for beginners, Paint by Numbers kits typically range from $25–$90 AUD depending on size and complexity. Custom kits usually start around $60–$120 AUD. Watch for sale periods like Click Frenzy, Black Friday, and Christmas — great deals are common.

Ready to start your painting journey?

Browse Australia’s best range of Paint by Numbers kits for adults, kids, and custom designs. Fast Australian shipping, top quality, unbeatable prices — your next favourite hobby is one click away.