How to paint your paint-by-number kit

Make a little room to create

Choose a well-lit table and protect the surface. Gently unroll your canvas and lay it flat without folding it. Have your numbered paints, brushes, picture reference, a cup of clean water and a paper towel nearby.

How to paint your paint-by-number kit

1. Match the number

   Find a number on the canvas, then choose the paint pot with that same number. Use the color reference to double-check. Match by number, not by how the wet paint looks on a screen or in the pot.

2. Start somewhere comfortable

   Choose a larger, easy-to-reach area for your first few brushstrokes. You can work one color at a time or finish a small section. Work away from your painting hand so it stays clear of wet paint.

3. Paint a light, even coat

   Dampen your brush, then blot it so it is not dripping. Pick up a little paint on the tip. Trace the inside of the area's edge, then fill toward the middle, covering the printed number. Use the smallest brush for tiny spaces.

4. Pause, then build coverage

   Let the paint dry thoroughly before adding another coat. Some colors need more than one coat to hide the print. Keep coats even rather than applying one thick layer, and let neighboring wet areas dry before working beside them.

Between colors and when you take a break

Keep unused paint pots closed. When switching colors, rinse your brush and blot it before loading the next paint. You do not need to finish the whole picture in one sitting.

Painting together

Painting different pictures together? Keep each canvas with its own numbered paints and reference. The same number can mean a different color in another kit.

Using your painting guides

Color reference

Use the painted picture to orient your canvas and see where each color belongs. The numbered color key connects each area to its paint pot.

Detail guide, if included

Each detail page has a small view of the whole picture with a box marking the enlarged area below. Match the picture's orientation to your canvas. Letters such as A and B identify close-ups; the numbers inside them still identify paints.

A number with a line

A thin line from a number points to its paint area. Follow it to the end. It is a guide mark, not a separate strip to paint. Check the printed reference or detail guide if the area is hard to follow.

Common painting questions

The number still shows through.

Wait until the paint dries, then add another light coat of the same color. Check it again after drying before adding more.

I painted the wrong color.

Let it dry, then carefully cover it with the correct paint. A lighter color over a darker one may need several light coats.

A space is too small or unclear.

Use the finest brush tip and consult the detail guide if provided. If you still cannot identify the paint number, contact us with a photo of that spot rather than guessing.

A paint is missing, dry or running low.

Email help@numberandbrush.com with your order number and the paint-pot number. Include a photo if it helps. Keep the pot label so we can identify the color.

Clean up while the paint is wet

Wipe excess paint from your brushes, then wash with soap and water while the paint is still wet. Rinse and gently reshape the tips. Close every paint pot securely. Do not pour leftover paint down the drain; follow local disposal guidance.

When you are finished

Let your painting dry thoroughly before handling or framing it. Keep it flat while drying, with nothing resting on the painted surface. Keep the reference and labeled paint pots together for later touch-ups.

Need a hand?

Email help@numberandbrush.com with your order number.

Ready for another picture? Explore our paint-by-number maker.