Frequently asked questions about paint by numbers

What is the best site to buy a paint by numbers?

The best site is the one whose kits match what you're looking for. Before you order, check these points on the product page:

  • The canvas : a pre-printed woven canvas holds paint better than card or paper.
  • The paints : numbered pots ready to use, one colour per number, no mixing needed.
  • How clear the outline is : photos of the blank canvas with crisp numbers and areas suited to your level.
  • Exactly what's in the kit : number of brushes, whether a frame is included, size in centimetres.
  • Costs and delivery times : the delivery price to the UK and the dispatch time shown before you pay.
  • Contact : a visible customer service email address and written returns terms.

At paintbynumbersuk.co.uk, every kit contains a pre-printed linen canvas, numbered acrylic paint pots ready to use and 3 brushes. The catalogue has more than 1,000 designs, plus a kit made from your own photo. Orders are dispatched within 48 hours and delivery is free in the UK. For any questions: contact@paintbynumbersuk.co.uk.

To compare for yourself: paint by numbers for adults (more than 1,300 designs), kits for children and beginners or your photo as a paint by numbers kit.

How does paint by numbers for adults work?

Adult paint by numbers works by matching each numbered section on the printed linen canvas with the numbered acrylic paint pot. Paint one area at a time, using the paper chart to check the colour and number. You do not need to mix colours. The complete kit includes three brushes, so you can choose the fine, medium or wide brush for each section. Painting time varies by size, from about 10 hours for a 15 x 15 cm canvas to around 20 to 40 hours depending on the size.

How do I clean and store professional brushes?

Clean your brushes straight after every session in warm water with a little mild soap, and never leave them standing upright in water, as this can distort the synthetic bristles. For acrylic paint, the key is not to let it dry in the ferrule, the metal part that holds the bristles.

  1. Rinse the brush in warm water before the paint dries, working the water through the bristles.
  2. Add a little mild soap and gently work it into the bristles, avoiding the ferrule where possible.
  3. Rinse well until the water runs clear.
  4. Reshape the tip with your fingers and leave the brush to dry flat or head up.

To make your brushes last longer, follow this routine after every use and store them flat or head up, never resting on the bristles. Replace a brush when the bristles are splayed, damaged or no longer hold their shape, as this will affect the accuracy of your painting.