How to Make Your Paint by Numbers Look Better

How to Make Your Paint by Numbers Look Better

Paint by numbers is a relaxing and therapeutic way to unwind, tap into your creative side, and create something beautiful. But sometimes, your completed Paint By Numbers masterpiece might not look as polished or professional as you envisioned. The good news is that with just a few tips and tricks, you can take your paint by numbers project to the next level!

At Paint for Life, we believe that everyone should be able to create stunning artwork—whether you’re an experienced artist or a complete beginner. Below, we’ve compiled our top tips for making your paint by numbers look more refined and polished.

1. Start with Quality Supplies

While many paint by numbers kits come with their own supplies, it’s always a good idea to invest in a few higher-quality tools. Using good brushes, paints, and even a canvas can make a huge difference in the outcome of your project.

• Brushes: Consider using finer-tipped brushes for more detailed areas, and make sure to clean them regularly to maintain sharp lines and even strokes.
• Paints: Some kits may include lower-quality paints that can look streaky or dull. If you want a smoother finish, consider using acrylic paints with better pigmentation.
• Canvas: A good quality canvas will give your painting a more professional look. Opt for a linen or heavy cotton canvas instead of a cheaper, thinner material.

2. Use Thin Layers and Build Up

Overloading the canvas with paint is one of the most typical blunders made when working with a Paint By Number kit. Applying thick coats can result in an uneven surface or paint that does not cure correctly.

• Thin Layers: Apply paint in thin layers, especially with the lighter colors. This helps the colors blend more naturally and creates a smoother texture.
• Build Up: Layering paint allows you to gradually intensify colors or fix areas that need more coverage, helping your painting look more refined.

3. Blend Colors for Depth and Dimension

While paint by numbers is about following the numbers, you can still incorporate some blending techniques to give your piece more depth and dimension.

• Mixing Colors: If you feel adventurous, mix a small amount of the provided paint with other colors to create gradients, shadows, or highlights. For instance, adding a little white or black to a color can help it appear lighter or darker, giving your painting more realistic depth.
• Feathering: When working on areas with subtle transitions (like the sky or landscapes), gently feather the brush strokes from one color into the next. This creates soft transitions and a more professional appearance.

4. Fix Uneven or Overlap Areas

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, there are areas where the paint bleeds out of the lines or the coverage isn’t quite right. Don’t worry—these issues can be easily fixed.

• Touch Ups: Once the painting is dry, carefully go over any sections that need improvement. Use a smaller brush to fill in or tidy up lines that have blurred or gone over the edges.
• Edge Cleanup: To make your painting appear crisper, clean up the edges with a small, fine-tipped brush. This will give your painting a neat and polished look, especially for intricate details.

5. Pay Attention to Light and Shadows

Even in a paint by numbers project, understanding basic lighting and shadows can significantly improve your final piece. Consider where the light source is in your painting and how it affects the colors.

• Shadows: Darken the areas that are naturally in shadow, such as under objects or on the side facing away from the light. This creates contrast and helps your painting come to life.
• Highlights: Likewise, add highlights to areas where the light hits the most, such as the tops of mountains, the edge of a building, or the tips of flowers. You can achieve this by adding a touch of white or lighter tones to these areas.

6. Focus on Details

Details are what make your paint by numbers piece stand out. Whether it’s small patterns in clothing, the texture of tree bark, or the subtle lines on a pet’s face, adding these final touches can elevate your painting.

• Small Brush for Fine Details: Use a fine brush for intricate details, like the eyes of an animal, the veins in leaves, or small architectural details. The smaller the area, the more attention it will need.
• Layering Details: Once your base layers are dry, go over them with additional layers to define details more clearly. You can also add extra touches like texture or patterns with your brushes.

7. Frame Your Artwork for a Professional Touch

After you’ve completed your masterpiece, consider framing your painting to give it a professional finish. A high-quality frame not only preserves your artwork but also enhances its overall appearance.

• Choose the Right Frame: Make sure the frame complements the colors and style of your painting. A simple, minimalist frame works well for modern paintings, while a more ornate frame might suit a classic, vintage-inspired piece.
• Matting: Adding a mat around your painting can also help it stand out and add a touch of elegance.

8. Take Care of Your Finished Artwork

To keep your paint by numbers looking beautiful long after you’ve finished, take proper care of your artwork.

• Protect the Surface: Consider using a clear varnish or fixative to protect your painting from dust, dirt, and fading. This will help the colors remain vibrant and the canvas stay in good condition.
• Display with Care: Avoid hanging your painting in areas where it will be exposed to direct sunlight, as this can cause fading. Also, keep your painting away from areas with excessive moisture or heat, like bathrooms or kitchens.

Creating a stunning Paint By Numbers piece is all about patience, attention to detail, and using the right techniques. By following these tips, you’ll not only improve the look of your painting but also develop your artistic skills along the way. Whether you’re painting for relaxation or to showcase a beautiful piece of art, the satisfaction of seeing your work evolve into something polished is incredibly rewarding.

At Paint for Life, we’re here to inspire and support you on your artistic journey. Whether you’re just getting started or you’re ready to enhance your skills, we offer a wide range of kits that are perfect for any level of artist. Happy painting!