7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Customised Paint by Numbers Kits

Creating your own paint by number masterpiece is a rewarding and relaxing experience. At Paintly.store, we take pride in helping you turn any image into a custom paint by number kit. But before you dive headfirst to customize paint by number kits, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid. Here are 7 mistakes to steer clear of for a smooth and satisfying creation process:

Mistake 1: Choosing a Low-Quality Image Source

The foundation of a stunning custom paint by number kit lies in the image itself. While any picture can be technically converted, the final product's quality hinges on the initial image quality. Here's what to consider:

• Resolution: A high-resolution image (ideally 300 dpi or higher) ensures crisp details and vibrant colours when translated into numbered sections. Blurry or pixelated photos will result in a patchy paint by number experience.
• Colour Range: Images with a rich and diverse colour palette offer a more engaging painting experience. Photos with limited colour variations might translate to large sections with the same paint colour, making the process repetitive.
• Clarity and Contrast: A clear image with strong contrast between different elements allows for better definition in the numbered sections. Photos that are overly dark, light, or lack clear contrast will translate to muddy and indistinct paint by number sections.

Tips:

• Use high-resolution photos taken with a good camera or phone.
• Consider editing your image beforehand to enhance contrast and adjust colours for a more vibrant painting experience.
• If unsure about image quality, consult Paintly.store's customer service for guidance.

Mistake 2: Neglecting the Importance of Canvas Size

The size of your paint by numbers canvas significantly impacts the level of detail you can achieve. Here's why canvas size matters:

• Smaller Canvases: While space-saving, smaller canvases offer fewer numbered sections, resulting in larger areas with the same paint colour. This can make the painting process less intricate and potentially monotonous.
• Larger Canvases: Larger canvases provide more numbered sections, allowing for finer details and a more nuanced painting experience. However, a very large canvas can be overwhelming for beginners.

Tips:

• Consider your skill level and desired level of detail when choosing a canvas size.
• Paintly.store offers a variety of canvas sizes to cater to different preferences.
• If you're a beginner, start with a medium-sized canvas to strike a balance between detail and manageability.

Mistake 3: Overlooking the Included Colour Guide

While the numbered sections provide the painting roadmap, your custom paint by number kit from Paintly.store includes a valuable bonus: a colour guide! Here's why it's important:

• Matching Colours with Confidence: The colour guide acts as a physical reference, allowing you to precisely match the intended colours for each numbered section.
• Enhanced Accuracy: Using the colour guide alongside the numbered sections minimises the risk of colour misinterpretation and ensures a more accurate representation of the original image.
• Streamlined Painting Process: Having the colour guide readily available eliminates the need for constant reference to a digital image on a separate device, streamlining your painting experience.

Tips:

• Familiarise yourself with the colour guide before you begin painting.
• Use the colour guide in conjunction with the numbered sections for optimal colour accuracy.
• The colour guide can also serve as a handy reference for mixing colours if needed.

Mistake 4: Skipping the Prep Work - Brushes and Paint

Taking a few moments to prepare your paint by numbers kit can significantly enhance your painting experience. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Brush Selection: While the kit may come with brushes, consider investing in a set of high-quality brushes with different sizes. This allows you to tackle both large and small areas with greater control and precision.
• Brush Care: Proper brush care is essential. Rinse your brushes thoroughly between colours and after each painting session to prevent paint build-up and maintain brush shape.
• Paint Quality: Using high-quality acrylic paints ensures smooth application, vibrant colours, and better coverage like the artist-grade acrylic paints for a superior painting experience, provided by Paintly.store.

Tips:

• Purchase a set of artist brushes with different sizes, including fine detail brushes.
• Rinse your brushes with clean water regularly and dry them flat after each use.
• Consider upgrading the included paints to artist-grade acrylic paints for richer color and better coverage.

Mistake 5: Starting in the Wrong Place - A Strategic Approach

Light to Dark: Starting with the lightest colors first allows you to see the emerging image clearly and avoid accidentally smudging darker colors over lighter ones. This approach is ideal for beginners or those working on intricate details.

Dark to Light: Starting with the darkest colors first creates a base layer, making it easier to distinguish lighter colors on top. This method can be helpful for larger areas and creating a sense of depth.

Tips:

• Experiment and see which approach works best for you.
• Regardless of the starting point, work in sections to avoid paint drying unevenly and potentially causing smudging.
• Focus on completing one numbered section at a time for a more organized painting experience.

Mistake 6: Neglecting the Power of Breaks and Patience

Paint by numbers kits can be surprisingly time-consuming, especially for larger or more detailed images. Here's why taking breaks is important:

• Preventing Eye Strain: Focusing on small details for extended periods can lead to eye strain. Taking breaks allows your eyes to rest and prevents fatigue.
• Maintaining Focus: Continuous painting can lead to decreased focus and attention to detail. Taking breaks allows you to return to the project with renewed focus and a fresh perspective.
• Avoiding Frustration: Complex sections or mistakes can be frustrating. Stepping away for a short break allows you to return to the project with a calmer mind and a better approach.

Tips:

• Set realistic expectations for completion time.
• Schedule regular breaks to prevent eye strain and maintain focus.
• Step away from the painting if you encounter frustration. Take a deep breath and come back to it later.

Mistake 7: Forgetting the Finishing Touches

Once you've completed the numbered sections, your custom paint by number masterpiece is nearly finished! But don't forget these final steps:

• Varnishing: Applying a layer of varnish protects your artwork from dust, dirt, and UV rays. This helps preserve the vibrancy of your colors and ensures your creation lasts for years to come.
• Framing: A beautiful frame enhances the visual appeal of your completed painting and transforms it into a stunning piece of home décor. Choose a frame that complements the style and colors of your artwork.
• Displaying with Pride: Find a special place to display your finished custom paint by number artwork. It's a testament to your creativity and a conversation starter for anyone who sees it.

Tips:

• Use a high-quality varnish specifically designed for acrylic paintings.
• Choose a frame that complements the colors and style of your artwork.
• Hang your finished painting in a well-lit location away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience while creating your very own custom paint by number masterpiece. With a little planning, preparation, and attention to detail, you'll be well on your way to transforming any image into a stunning work of art.

Bonus Tip: Don't be afraid to experiment! Paint by numbers kits are a fantastic way to explore your creativity. Try using different brushstrokes, blending techniques, or even adding your own artistic touches to personalize your artwork.  For a truly immersive experience, consider using a paint by numbers easel to hold your canvas while you paint.