Watching people create mesmerizing art with their paint laden fingers and brushes, with patience equivalent to a saint affixed in front of a canvas…. Did your heart ever yearn to create an art that beckons the eyes of the viewer and captivates them in the swirling strokes? Paint by Numbers art is the threshold where it is possible for everyone to make a wonderful painting irrespective of any skill or talent.
“What is paint by numbers?“ with this blog, with this blog, learn about this interesting and therapeutic art activity. And embark on an artistic adventure that enhances your concentration, and provides a sense of accomplishment with every brushstroke.
What is paint by numbers?
The Paint by Numbers system involves dividing a picture into numbered shapes, each corresponding to a specific color. By painting within these shapes, the overall image is gradually revealed as a completed painting.
The Paint by Numbers system is believed to be helpful in conveying the idea that a painting is constructed through the use of multiple color shapes. These individual shapes may not make logical sense or resemble anything recognizable on their own, but when combined, they form the complete image. The next step in a painter’s growth is to develop the ability to independently identify and perceive these color shapes, without relying on a pre-printed guide.
Completing an easy paint by numbers project helps you learn to analyze a subject and observe areas of color. Focusing on small areas and the appropriate colors to paint them, rather than the final appearance of the finished work, can be a beneficial exercise. “Paint by numbers” may not be as problematic an activity as one might initially believe.
According to Bülent Atalay in his book Math and the Mona Lisa: The Art and Science of Leonardo da Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci himself pioneered a technique where he would sketch out a work and assign his assistants to paint specific numbered areas.
Paint by number accessories
A Paint by Numbers kit comes with the following painting accessories:
- Brushes
- Paint pots
- Printed canvas set for painting
- Instruction manual
The paint in the paint pots may not look like much paint, but it should be sufficient for completing the picture. You can use any other compatible paint you already have.
Be sure to check what type of paint the paint by number custom kit contains (acrylic and oil paint are the most common, though you do get kits with watercolor or pencils). We think acrylic paint one is preferable to one with oil paint as the paint dries quickly and you use water to wash the brush, so it’s easier for a beginner.
How to paint by numbers?
Now we know what is paint by numbers kit and the materials this canvas painting kit include, let’s learn the ways to paint your own masterpiece paint by number:
1. Paint one color at a time:
It is tempting to paint a complete section of the paint by number canvas at a time, but that will necessitate a lot of brush washing and waste paint. To eliminate this issue you can paint one color throughout the canvas.
2. Largest to smallest area:
Remember to paint from the largest areas of the color to the smallest. As larger areas are easy to paint compared to the smaller part. With this, you reduce the risk of painting over small and detailed sections while maintaining an overall perspective of the paint by number sets.
3. Begin from top:
Working from the top of the custom paint by numbers to down helps prevent accidentally disturbing wet paint, helps prevent smudges and allows you to see the image come together. With this, you can maintain the integrity of smaller, detailed sections at the bottom.
4. Maintain brush control:
Having the brush control to paint accurately up to an edge or specific point is a crucial skill that every aspiring artist needs to develop. You can use it for painting a background or darkening a shadow and wherever you want a hard edge.
5. Keep paint pots clean:
Cleaning the brush before dipping it into another color is essential. As not doing so will contaminate another color. If you do accidentally do this, don’t stir it in but use the corner of a clean cloth or piece of paper towel to try to remove it.
Tips for best paint by the numbers
⇒ The brush supplied is usually a small one, to enable you to paint the smallest shapes in the painting. It can make painting larger areas very daunting so, if you have got a bigger brush use it.
⇒ Start with either the darkest color and end with the lightest or the other way around, leaving any segments that have a mixed color (double number) till last. Painting the colors in sequence from dark to light (or the other way around) will help you learn a little about the tone and chroma of colors.
⇒ Keep a jar of clean water for washing your brush (assuming it’s an acrylic Paint by Numbers kit) to hand, as well as a cloth for wiping and drying the brush. Do not dip the brush into the paint all the way up to the ferrule.
⇒ Rather pick up paint more frequently than have a glob of it fall off onto the painting. Be patient!
⇒ Don’t splay out the hairs of the brush in an attempt to paint in an area more quickly. This will easily ruin the brush.
Summing Up!
As we end our what is paint by numbers guide, it is clear that this timeless hobby offers more than just a chance to create beautiful artwork. This art form bridges the gap between structured guidance and creative freedom, allowing you to experience the thrill of artistic expression without the intimidation of starting from scratch. It is a meditative process, a therapeutic escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and a unique way to engage in a fulfilling and rewarding activity.
So, find out more about what is the best paint by numbers with the Art of Paint by Numbers collection and get your favorite kit today!
