Paint by Numbers Frequently Asked Questions

New to painting by numbers or choosing your next project? Find answers about difficulty levels, kit contents, framing, delivery and returns at Hobby Paint.

Getting started

What is paint by numbers?

Paint by numbers is a guided way of painting. Your canvas has numbered areas that correspond to paint colours. Work through the sections to gradually complete the picture.

Are paint by numbers kits suitable for beginners?

Yes. We recommend starting with a design tagged Easy and choosing a subject you enjoy. More intricate projects are available as your confidence grows.

Do I need drawing or painting experience?

No drawing experience is needed for a numbered kit. Take your time, follow the reference picture and work section by section.

How long does a painting take?

It depends on the size and complexity of the design and how much time you spend painting. Many customers enjoy working on their picture over several sessions.

Choosing a kit

What do the difficulty tags mean?

Our tags help you compare designs: Easy is beginner-friendly; Moderate offers a balanced level of detail; Advanced is for confident painters; Difficult is a more demanding project; and Master is intended for highly experienced painters. Refer to each product’s assigned tag.

The difficulty level is based on the number and ratio of small painting areas. Easy grades should be few very small colour sections and most if not all will have numbers. At the other end of the scale Master grades may have up to 50% of the painting being very small complex colour zones, some of the sections may be too small for numbers and require your own choice of colour from the supplied pots.

Which subjects can I choose from?

Explore landscapes, wildlife, flowers, abstract designs, historic subjects, vehicles and more through our shop categories. You can also browse Hobby Paint Studio and Chenistory.

What is included in a paint by numbers kit?

Contents vary by product. Check the individual listing for canvas dimensions, number of paint colours, brushes, reference materials and framing options before ordering.

Canvas and framing

Do I need to prepare the canvas with gesso?

Hobby Paint Studio kits with triple pre-coated linen canvas are designed to be ready for painting without extra gesso preparation. Check other product listings for their specific canvas details.

What are the framing options?

Selected products offer an unframed canvas, a DIY frame or a pre-stretched frame. Available choices are shown on the individual product page. A rolled, unframed canvas can be mounted or framed after painting.

How do I care for my completed painting?

Allow all painted areas to dry fully before handling or framing. Keep the finished artwork away from damp and prolonged direct sunlight. If using a finishing varnish, check that it is compatible with the paints and test first.

Ordering and delivery

How long does delivery take?

Our published shipping guidance advises allowing approximately four weeks for delivery, although some orders arrive sooner and occasional delays occur. Many items are shipped from overseas. Please read our Shipping and Delivery page and the product listing for the relevant estimate.

Will my parcel have tracking?

Our shipping information states that parcels are tracked and that tracking details are sent once the parcel enters the shipping system. See Shipping and Delivery for more information.

What if my order has not arrived?

If your order has not arrived within one calendar month, please refer to our delivery information and contact us so the parcel can be investigated.

Returns and support

Can I return a paint by numbers kit?

Our Returns and Refunds page sets out the returns process, eligibility conditions and refund information. It states that eligible unused items can be returned within 14 calendar days of receipt. Your statutory consumer rights still apply.