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Canvas Sizes for Painting by Numbers: What Beginners Should Choose?

Canvas sizes for painting

Starting the journey of painting by numbers is always exciting and fun. It is a great way to enter the world of art. We also know that this does not even require advanced skills or techniques. But there is one crucial aspect that makes us, especially beginners, scratch our head –  canvas sizes for painting by numbers.  

The canvas sizes you choose for your painting by number will impact your painting experience. It will affect the final outcome of your paint by number artwork. We will now discuss the detailed guide that will help beginners select the standard canvas sizes for their painting by numbers.

Why are the canvas sizes for painting so important?

Canvas sizes for painting

The typical canvas sizes you choose will always affect the painting experience. It affects everything, from the level of detail in the painting to the amount of time it will take to complete. We will talk about some reasons:

  •  Detail and Complexity: Larger canvases allow fine details and complex designs. Smaller canvases can be used for simpler, less detailed images. It is ideal for beginners.
  •  Time Investment: The size of the canvas is directly related to the amount of time required to complete the painting. Larger canvases will take more time. The smaller ones can be completed in less time.
  •  Display Options:  You will eventually be considering displaying your finished artwork. A larger canvas will be suitable for a feature wall. You can go for a smaller one that could fit perfectly on a shelf or in a smaller space.
  • Ease of Handling: It is easier for beginners to manage smaller canvases. They are especially the ones who are new to handling brushes and paints.

3 Standard canvas Sizes for painting

Let us quickly go through the three different canvas sizes and their importance.

Small Canvases (8×10 inches, 9×12 inches) or ( 20×25 cm or 25×30 cm)

standard canvas sizes

Small canvases are a great starting point for beginners. They are easy to handle. A limited surface area means you can complete your painting relatively quickly. Let’s talk about the benefits of the small canvases:

1. Manageable Sections: Small canvases typically have fewer sections to paint. It makes the task less overwhelming. This is perfect for those who are new to painting by numbers. Larger and more complex projects won’t make you nervous.

2. Quick Completion: Completing a small canvas can be a great confidence booster. It allows beginners to finish their first few projects quickly. It gives a sense of accomplishment. It encourages them to handle more challenging pieces of work.

3. Learning Curve: Small canvases provide an excellent opportunity to learn the basics of painting by numbers. Complex details won’t bump you down. Beginners can work on mastering brush control, color matching, and following the numbered sections.

Medium Canvases (12×16 inches, 16×20 inches) or ( 30×40 cm or 40×50 cm)

typical canvas sizes

If you have gained some confidence and experience with smaller canvases, you can try your hand at medium-sized ones. These canvases are a balance between detail and manageability. It is ideal for beginners who are ready to take on a bit more challenge. Let’s understand their importance in detail:

1. More Detailing: Medium canvases provide more space for detailed images without being too overwhelming. This size allows beginners to work on projects that require a bit more precision and patience. It helps them improve their skills.

2. Longer Engagement: Small canvases can be completed quickly, whereas medium canvases provide a longer and more engaging experience. This can be enjoyable for those who find painting by numbers relaxing and helpful.

3. Versatility: Medium canvases are versatile and suitable for various display options. You can frame your finished artwork or hang it directly on the wall. This size can fit into many different spaces, as per your choice.

Large size canvases (20×24 inches, 24×36 inches) or (50×60 cm or 60×90 cm)

large canvas sizes

There are people who feel confident in their painting skills and are ready for a bigger challenge. Large canvases can be a good choice for them. These big canvas sizes provide space for detailed and complex designs. It is suitable for more experienced beginners. Here are some benefits:

1. Complex Designs: Large canvases can support highly detailed and complex designs. This can be a thrilling experience for beginners. They can test their skills and create beautiful pieces of art along the way.

2. Extended Engagement: Working on a large canvas is a long-term project. It requires patience and dedication. It provides a prolonged and immersive painting experience. This can be very satisfying for those who enjoy spending hours lost while creating art.

3. Statement Pieces: Finished large canvases always make a statement. They draw attention and admiration from anyone who sees them. Completing a large painting by numbers project can be a significant achievement, indicating their dedication and skill level.

Best canvas sizes for painting

Best canvas sizes for painting for kids

Best canvas sizes for painting  for Kids

Recommended Size: 8×10 inches or 12×16 inches  (20×25 cm or 30×40 cm)

  • Why this size?: Smaller canvases, such as 8×10 inches or 12×16 inches, are ideal for kids. They are more manageable and less overwhelming. The limited space helps maintain the attention span of younger children. It allows them to complete the painting without losing interest.
  • Details: These sizes provide enough space for detail without being too complex. It makes it easier for kids to follow the numbered sections. It provides a sense of accomplishment upon completion. The reduced complexity also ensures they don’t get frustrated. It provides a positive artistic experience.

→ Best canvas sizes for painting for beginner skill levels

Recommended Size: 12×16 inches or 16×20 inches (30×40 cm or 40×50 cm)

  • Why this size?: These canvas sizes are great for beginner skill levels. They offer a balanced challenge without being overwhelming. It makes them ideal for those just starting out.
  • Details: These canvas sizes provide enough space for beginners to practice. They can refine their techniques as they are not too large to manage. You can do detailed work and color blending. It is manageable for those who are new to painting. Starting with these sizes can help build confidence and skills.

→ Best canvas sizes for painting for seniors

Best canvas sizes for painting for seniors

Recommended Size: 12×16 inches or 16×20 inches  ( 30×40 cm or 40×50 cm)

  • Why This Size: A medium-sized canvas, such as 12×16 inches or 16×20 inches, is a good balance between being large enough to see and manage comfortably. They are not so small that they strain the eyes.
  • Details: Older adults may prefer these sizes because they offer sufficient space for detail. They do not cause eye strain or require fine motor skills for very small sections. This size also allows for a leisurely pace of painting.

→ Best canvas sizes for painting for intermediate and expert skill levels

Recommended Size: 18×24 inches or larger (e.g., 24×36 inches),  i.e.  45×60 cm or larger (e.g., 60×90 cm)

  • Why this size?: This canvas size is suitable for more experience and advanced skills. These larger canvases, such as 18×24 inches or even 24×36 inches, are ideal for this.
  • Details: These canvas sizes provide sufficient space for highly detailed and complex designs. They challenge the artist. It allows for a more immersive experience. The larger canvas size also allows for more nuanced color blending. It gives scope for fine detail work.

→ Best canvas sizes for painting for adults

Best canvas sizes for painting for adults

Recommended Size: 16×20 inches or 18×24 inches  ( 40×50 cm or 45×60 cm)

  • Why This Size?: It is suitable for most adults, as a canvas size of 16×20 inches or 18×24 inches provides a good balance of challenge and enjoyment. You should try these painting ideas for adults on such a canvas perfectly.
  • Details: These sizes are large enough to create a detailed piece of art. It is still manageable for someone with a moderate amount of time. The larger space gives scope to complex designs for adults.

→ Best canvas sizes for painting for teens

Recommended Size: 12×16 inches or 16×20 inches   ( 30×40 cm or 40×50 cm)

  • Why this size?: Teenagers usually appreciate a challenge. They may not have the patience for very large canvases. So, a canvas size of 12×16 inches or 16×20 inches is a good fit.
  • Details: These sizes are small enough to finish relatively quickly. It will keep their interest. These sizes are large enough to provide engaging designs. This balance helps in maintaining their enthusiasm. These easy teen painting ideas will work well on these canvases.

Summing Up!

Selecting the right painting canvas sizes for your painting by numbers is an important decision for beginners. It will definitely affect your enjoyment, the complexity of the project, and the final outcome of your artwork. Beginners should start with smaller canvases. It is generally a good idea for beginners. Small canvases are easier to manage and complete. 

As you gain experience and confidence, you can gradually move on to medium and large size canvas. Painting by numbers is about the joy and relaxation that come from the process. So, you should choose canvas sizes for painting that you are comfortable with. This way, you can enjoy every moment of giving life to your canvas.

Looking for awesome paint by number kits? Check out Art of Paint by Number.