THE VERY BEST TIPS AND TRICKS FOR PAINT BY NUMBERS: Part 4 in the MBN Summer 'How To' Series

This is the last in our 4 part summer "How To" series. Today we are going to give you all the insider tips and tricks if you like to do paint by numbers! We often get asked about different types of products to use when doing paint by numbers so hopefully all of your questions will be answered here! If not, you can always call or email us. We would love to hear from you!

It goes without saying that you should follow the numbers! The numbered outlines on the canvas correspond to specific colors in your paint set. It's crucial to follow these numbers carefully to ensure that you're using the correct colors for each section. Be sure to find a well-lit space where you can comfortably work on your painting.

Lay out all the materials included in the kit, such as the canvas, paintbrushes, paper guide, and paints. You can certainly tape the corners of your canvas to an artboard so you can paint in your lap. Other suggestions are to put the canvas on a flat surface such as a table or desk.

We get lots of questions about gesso. Gesso is a primer that helps prepare the canvas for painting. Our MBN canvases are already pre-treated, so gesso isn't necessary. However, if you do wish to use it, be sure it is clear gesso! We have had customers use the white gesso and cover all of the lines and numbers on the canvas. This is definitely NOT recommended if you are planning on having a relaxing painting session.

Each brand is different, so be sure to read the directions carefully on the bottle. Ensure that the gesso is fully dried before moving on to painting.

Another tip to help prevent your paint from drying out is to close the paint pots when not in use. You can scoop a bit of paint into a water bottle lid or plastic plate and then seal the pot. That way, you are not opening and closing the paint pot so often. As you know, acrylic paint is very sensitive to air exposure and dries very quickly!

If you love to do paint by numbers, you know that your brush strokes are very important for coverage of the lines and numbers. To achieve smooth and even brush strokes, it's essential to load an appropriate amount of paint onto your brush. You should also clean your brush thoroughly when switching colors to avoid any unwanted mixing. You can easily clean your brushes with water and dry them flat after your painting session.

Use thin layers of paint to achieve better color depth and avoid smudging. You should try to apply as thin as possible layer of paint instead of thick blobs. Start with a light application and gradually build up the color as needed.

Take breaks if you need to.  Painting should be a relaxing and enjoyable activity. If you find yourself getting tired or losing focus, it's perfectly fine to take short breaks. This will help rejuvenate your mind and result in a much better painting.

As you progress with your paint by numbers, pay attention to smaller details and intricate areas. These finer elements can greatly enhance the overall look of your artwork.

Having small detail brushes is essential. The MBN premium brush set has detail brushes that are fantastic for those smaller areas. 

Remember, painting by numbers is a process that requires patience and attention to detail. Embrace the journey, experiment with different techniques, and have fun bringing your artwork to life. You will end up with a fabulous Masterpiece that will be cherished forever. Enjoy!

Masterpiece by Numbers has thousands of 5 star reviews. You can see them as videos, photos, and by reading the amazing reviews by actual customers. This can help you choose the perfect paint by numbers kit. For more reviews, you can visit our website and see the review tab. Happy painting!