Art has long been seen as the domain of the talented. The delicate brush strokes of Van Gogh, the haunting surrealism of Dalí, the lifelike portraits of Rembrandt – all of these masterpieces might make the average person think, “I could never do that.” But what if I told you that art doesn’t have to be intimidating? What if there was a way to create something beautiful, even if you’ve never held a paintbrush before?
That’s where painting by numbers comes in.
This creative hobby has surged in popularity over the last few years, blending relaxation, mindfulness, and artistry into one enjoyable activity. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or someone who can barely draw a stick figure, painting by numbers offers a gateway into the world of creativity. Let’s explore its history, benefits, and why it might be the perfect pastime for you.
The Origins of Painting by Numbers
Painting by numbers wasn’t invented as a mere hobby – it was born from the idea that anyone can be an artist with the right guidance.
In the 1950s, a Detroit-based paint company called Palmer Paint introduced the first commercial painting by numbers kits. Led by Max Klein and artist Dan Robbins, the company launched the kits with the slogan: “Every man a Rembrandt.” Their concept was simple yet brilliant: a pre-drawn canvas divided into sections, each labelled with a number that corresponded to a specific paint colour.
At first, the idea was controversial. Some critics scoffed, saying it cheapened art by turning it into a “painted colouring book.” But the public thought otherwise. Painting by numbers quickly became a cultural phenomenon, with millions of kits sold across the United States. People loved the idea of creating art they could be proud of, regardless of skill level.
Fast forward to today, and painting by numbers has enjoyed a renaissance. Thanks to online shopping and customizable kits, it has become one of the most popular at-home hobbies, especially during the pandemic when people were searching for stress-relieving activities.
How Painting by Numbers Works
The concept is refreshingly simple.
-
Choose your kit – Kits usually come with a pre-drawn canvas, a set of acrylic paints, and brushes. Designs can range from simple floral patterns to complex landscapes or portraits.
-
Match numbers to colours – Each section of the canvas has a number, and each number corresponds to a paint colour.
-
Paint patiently – You fill in the sections with the correct colours, gradually watching the image come to life.
The beauty of painting by numbers is that it requires no previous art experience. The rules are straightforward, but the results are often surprisingly impressive.
The Benefits of Painting by Numbers
While it might seem like just another hobby, painting by numbers offers a host of mental, emotional, and even physical benefits.
1. Stress Relief and Mindfulness
Painting by numbers encourages you to slow down and focus on one task at a time. As you concentrate on filling each space with colour, your mind shifts away from worries. Many people compare it to meditation – your breathing slows, your thoughts quiet, and you’re fully present in the moment.
2. Boosts Creativity
Even though you’re following a guide, painting by numbers still sparks creativity. Some people like to experiment by blending colours or adding personal touches. Over time, you may even gain the confidence to try freehand painting.
3. Improves Focus and Patience
In a world dominated by instant gratification, painting by numbers teaches patience. It can take hours – or even days – to complete a kit, but the process itself is rewarding.
4. Builds Confidence
Finishing a painting, even with guidance, is incredibly satisfying. You end up with a piece of artwork that you can frame, gift, or proudly hang in your home. That sense of accomplishment boosts self-esteem and encourages you to try more challenging projects.
5. Accessible to All Ages
From children to seniors, painting by numbers can be enjoyed by virtually anyone. Kids can develop hand-eye coordination, while older adults can benefit from the fine motor practice and relaxation.
Why It’s More Than Just a Hobby
Painting by numbers is often underestimated. Some critics still dismiss it as “not real art.” But that misses the point entirely. Art has always been about expression, joy, and connection.
Just like adult colouring books, paint-by-number kits provide a space where people can disconnect from screens and rediscover the tactile joy of creating something with their hands. For many, it’s less about the final product and more about the journey – spending quiet evenings with a brush in hand, watching an image emerge stroke by stroke.
Moreover, paint-by-number kits can be deeply personal. Some companies now allow you to upload your own photos – whether it’s a picture of a beloved pet, a family portrait, or a favourite vacation snapshot – and they’ll create a custom kit for you. The result is a unique piece of art that’s meaningful and memorable.
Tips for Getting Started
If you’re curious about trying painting by numbers, here are some beginner-friendly tips:
-
Start with a simple design – Look for kits labelled as “easy” or “beginner.” They’ll have larger sections and fewer colours.
-
Organise your workspace – Lay out your paints, brushes, and water in a well-lit area. Keeping things tidy makes the process smoother.
-
Take your time – Don’t rush. Enjoy the process. You don’t need to finish in one sitting.
-
Work from top to bottom – This prevents your hand from smudging wet paint.
-
Use the right brush – Kits often come with multiple brushes. Use smaller brushes for detailed areas and larger ones for broad sections.
-
Seal your painting – Once finished, you can apply a clear acrylic sealant to protect and enhance your artwork.
A Hobby That Connects Generations
One of the most beautiful aspects of painting by numbers is how it brings people together. Families often do kits as group projects, with each person working on a different section. Grandparents and grandchildren can bond over a shared canvas, passing the time while creating something tangible.
In a digital age where much of our leisure time is spent staring at screens, painting by numbers offers a return to something tactile, calming, and collaborative.
The Future of Painting by Numbers
What started as a 1950s craze has evolved into a modern creative movement. Today, you can find kits in endless designs – abstract art, famous paintings, animals, city skylines, and even glow-in-the-dark options. Some brands have introduced eco-friendly kits with sustainable materials, while others focus on custom portraits.
Technology has also enhanced the experience. Online communities allow painters to share progress photos, swap tips, and inspire one another. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are full of time-lapse videos showing intricate paint-by-number works coming to life, which has only fueled the hobby’s popularity.
Final Thoughts
Painting by numbers is more than just filling in boxes with colour – it’s about finding joy in the creative process, no matter your skill level. It’s proof that art isn’t reserved for the “talented few.” With a brush, a set of paints, and a numbered canvas, anyone can create something beautiful.
So, if you’ve ever thought, “I wish I could paint”, consider this your invitation to give painting by numbers a try. You might just discover that the artist you’ve been looking for has been within you all along.
I really like how you framed painting by numbers as a bridge between mindfulness and creativity. It’s interesting how something so structured can still give people the freedom to feel artistic, especially for those who might feel intimidated by a blank canvas. I’ve found that the process itself is just as rewarding as the finished piece, almost like meditation with color.