Recently, Paint by Numbers Kits have become quite popular, due not just to beginner artists wanting to dabble in art, but also to established artists searching for a zen-like activity to pass the time. Whether you are simply painting for fun, want to decorate your wall, or wish to gift a thoughtful present, you want to ensure that you purchase the right kit.
For the artsy creatives of Australia, there is a growing selection of Paint by Numbers Kits available online, making it even easier to participate in this creative hobby. The only question is, how do you know which one to choose, as, like anything, there is an abundance of choice.
With the following guide, I will highlight the main considerations for you to consider when selecting the perfect paint by numbers kit, from the design and quality of the canvas the types of paint in the kit and potential for customisation.
�� 1. Know Your Skill Level
Painting by numbers is a hobby suitable for all. However, there are many options to choose from. There are very easy starter kits with large color blocks and only a few colors, and then there are more complicated kits that are intricate and detailed for seasoned veterans.
Before buying, consider the following:
- Beginner Kits: Simpler images, fewer colors, larger numbered sections.
- Intermediate to Advanced Kits: Detailed landscapes, portraits, or abstract images with smaller sections and more color variations.
If you’re unsure where you fall, start with a mid-level kit that balances ease and complexity. This way, you can enjoy the process without feeling overwhelmed.
��️ 2. Pick a Design That Inspires You
One of the most exhilarating aspects of selecting a paint-by-the-numbers kit is the opportunity to discover the perfect design that resonates with your aesthetic sense. The range of themes they have is massive – tranquil landscapes, wildlife portraiture, classical works, and humorous designs, just to name a few.
Consider two primary options:
- Do you prefer a calmer, naturalistic design, like a mountainscape or floral composition?
Do you prefer vibrant, contemporary, or minimalist art? - And what about a custom kit based on a photo of your friend’s dog or kid?
For anyone seeking a truly different experience, several stores selling Paint by Numbers Kits in Australia also offer custom options where you can upload your own image and paint a numbered canvas created from it. These also make gifts or truly memorable keepsakes.
�� 3. Evaluate Canvas Quality
The canvas serves as the foundation of your painting project. With low-quality canvases, you may become frustrated, and the paint won’t adhere to the surface as well. Here are some things to look for:
- Material: Cotton or linen canvases generally provide a good texture for acrylic paint, as well as a long-lasting finish.
- Pre-Stretched vs. Rolled: Pre-stretched canvases are mounted onto a wooden frame, and you can hang it once it is finished! Rolled canvases will more often be budget-friendly and more portable than pre-stretched canvases, however, it may need to be flattened or stretched after the painting is completed.
- Printed Clarity: The numbers should be clear and not smeared. Faint outlines and clearly defined sections will make the process easier.
If you are shopping for Paint by Numbers Kits online, always look for customer photos and reviews that mention the quality of the canvas.
�� 4. Check the Paint Type and Quality
Typically, Paint by Number Kits will use acrylic based paints that are suitable for everyone, from novice to professional. They are water-based, quick drying and easy to clean up. Be aware, however, that not all paint is made the same. Look for:
- Pre-mix, ready-to-use paints!
- Opaque coverage — An even coat of paint should completely cover the printed numbers in one or two coats.
- Containers are labeled so you can match the color with its number effortlessly.
Some of the more expensive kits sell extra pots, specifically of well-used colors, so you don’t run out of paint mid-project, which is helpful and makes multi-color projects less frustrating.
��️ 5. Choose the Right Brush Set
A quality brush can transform your overall result quite significantly. Most sets come with three basic sizes: small, medium, and large. When selecting brushes, ask yourself:
- Does the brush feel comfortable in the hand for a long duration of painting?
- Does the brush have a nice, soft, fine tip to create details?
- Does the brush feel durable?
Some kits come with brushes that fray and/or sheds hair immediately.If the kit has excellent designs but bad brushes, you can always purchase a separate, high quality set of brushes.
�� 6. Look for a Complete Package
The finest Paint by Numbers Kits have everything you need to get started painting. A complete kit should contain these next items:-
- Pre-printed canvas with numbered sections
- A set of numbered acrylic paints
- Set of at least three brushes- Reference image or instruction sheet
- Optional frame or mounting tools
- Extras, like hooks, sealant, or magnifying glasses (for detail-oriented work)
Having all the essentials included in one kit saves you the trouble of trying to hunt down items you were missing.
��️ 7. Consider Custom Paint by Numbers Kits
If you want a more personal experience, try a custom kit where you can provide a favorite photo (of a pet, family member, travel experience, or digital artwork) to be transformed into a paintable canvas.
Many online retailers that sell Paint By Numbers Kits in Australia now offer customization for an additional fee, which is great for gifts or an anniversary or creating paintings that have real meaning to you. Make sure to:
- Use a recent photo that has a high resolution and good lighting.
- Choose a photo style that fits your space.
- View proofs or previews before receiving a print if the seller offers this service.
��️ 8. Check Reviews and Ratings
Reading product reviews before buying (especially online) is helpful to gauge:
- Shipping times
- Packaging and protection
- Accuracy of colors and numbers
- Overall satisfaction with the final product
It’s also helpful to see if customer service is responsive — especially if the product is a custom kit or if the package was stolen/vanished.
9. Buy From Trusted Australian Sellers
Purchasing locally through your own country also supports local small businesses in your country and may additionally offer you some of the following benefits:
- Exclusive Australian-themed designs
- Better customer support who are in your time zone
- Low shipping and quicker return policy
In order to avoid expensive international shipping and delays, it is wise to buy from sellers in your own country. The good news is that there are a growing number of solid platforms to purchase Paint by Number Kits in Australia that offer fast delivery and quality kits.
✅ Final Thoughts
Whether you are new to the world of painting or are an accomplished painter looking for a relaxing project, Paint by Numbers Kits are an enjoyable and rewarding way to create the art you desire. The first and most important element in your journey is deciding on the appropriate kit that suits your skill level, personal tastes, and intentions for the painting.
The best kits will include quality canvases and high-quality paints, as well as unique pieces of art that you can customize and make your own. And, with the expanding availability of high-quality Paint by Numbers Kits in Australia, now is an ideal time to take part in this enjoyable pastime.
So, go ahead – pick up that brush, match the colors with the numbers, and watch your next masterpiece reveal itself, one color at a time.
