Slow Down with Paint-by-Number

|On a scale of 1 to 10, how stressed would you say you are right now? Chances are you're not a 1 (zen-like state) and hopefully you're not a 10 (and if you are, I would encourage you to stop reading this article right away so you can take care of yourself first!). Chances are, you're probably somewhere in the middle. Maybe you're worried about a big deadline coming up at work, or the pile of laundry in the corner that keeps giving you the stink-eye (literally). The truth it.. life is stressful!

It can be nearly impossible to avoid some level of stress in our daily lives, yet we do have the ability to take action to try to prevent or reduce the stress that we're feeling. Wouldn't it be nice to just take some time for yourself, let your shoulders drop a bit, and feel the weight of the world wash away, even for a few minutes... if you said 'Yes!' then let me tell you about a not-so-new art activity that can help you feel calmer and more relaxed, even if you only spend a few minute a day on it.

This activity is known as paint-by-number. Essentially, it'a a canvas that has been printed with the outline of a picture with numbers that correspond to different paint colours. Once you fill in all of the spots with the correct paint, your picture comes to life and your masterpiece is revealed. Let me tell you (and show you) more below!
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Pleaste note: This is a collaborative article as I was sent a paint-by-number to try out for myself. All comments are my own. The links on this page may also be embedded with affiliate links at no extra cost to you.

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Slow Down with Paint-by-Number

Let's learn more about this activity called paint-by-number including how it can benefit you and help lower your stress. My own experience with paint-by-number actually happened at a young age when I saw my mother create these works of art using a similar system, but she actually used oil-based paints which can take a lot of skill and patience. I remember her paintings hanging in our home and at my grandparents house and how proud I felt of my mother for being so creative.

When I learned of a paint-by-number kit that literally gets delivered to  your door in this very neat and tidy tube with everything you need to create your own acrylic-based masterpiece, I was so excited! The memories of my mother's paintings came flooding back to me, and I couldn't wait to receive my kit to try it out for myself.

More about paint-by-number:

Paint by numbers kits were invented by Dan Robbins in the 1950s. It is a system where a painting is divided into small areas, each marked with a number that corresponds to a specific colour. Most of the time, the uncoloured shapes won’t make much sense and you won’t be able to recognize the painting before you’ve almost finished it.

Who is Winnie's Picks?

Winnie’s Picks is a Belgian paint company specialized in the production of unique paint by numbers. The kits come with everything you need to get started. They’re packed into a beautiful tube to ensure that all components arrive in good condition and that the canvas comes wrinkles free.​

What exactly does a paint-by-number kit come with? 
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• a high-quality linen canvas rolled in a strong tube - the canvas is certified wrinkle-free and size 16" x 20" or 40 x 50 cm
• an acrylic paint set - there is no need to mix the colours & there is more than enough paint to complete the painting
• a set of 4 brushes - you can start painting straight from the box as well as complete painting instructions - perfect for beginners

How difficult is it to finish a paint-by-number kit?

These craft kits are designed for adults, as much for beginners as for more talented artists looking for a new hobby. Completing a paint by numbers project helps you learn to analyze a subject and observe areas of color. It's less about being perfect in your work, and more about enjoying the process and allowing yourself to slow down.

Learn about my own experience of trying out my own canvas in the next section!

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Trying Paint-by-Number for Myself

I chose the painting titled "A Walk at Low Tide" because it reminded me of that carefree feeling you can have during the summer months at the beach, with the sounds of seagulls in the distance and the water lapping at the shore. I look at the picture and can instantly be transported to the sights and sounds of the beach and thought it would look amazing hanging in my bathroom!

I will update photos as I complete my canvas (the first photo below is for reference to show you what the finished product should look like).

My initial impressions...

So far I am finding it super easy to get started. You can literally start anywhere on the canvas, there's no steps involved and the instructions are more like tips to help you along the way.

I opted to start from the top left hand corner since I'm right-handed and was a bit worried about dragging my hand through the paint by mistake (which so far hasn't happened, thankfully).

It doesn't take a lot of paint to cover the canvas, but the lighter colours need a few coats to make sure you no longer see the number and lines on the canvas.

I wanted to try out the brighter colours which meant I had to venture further south on the canvas which wasn't a problem at all. It seems like you can hop around to any colour you want, although I am finding it easier sticking with one colour at a time rather than having to wash the brushes so often.

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Progress! I added the beautiful teal colour today and I'm now working on the colour 8 which is a nice muted green colour. I have been working on this project during my breaks at work which has helped me to feel relaxed and rejuvenated to go back to work. Click on each photo to see more.

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FAQ

Q How much does each kit cost?
In general, complete kits cost between $19.95 USD to $24.95 USD. Custom canvas kits using your own photo cost $34.95.

Q Is shipping free?
There is free, worldwide shopping on all orders over $50 USD, otherwise standard shipping rates apply and will vary depending on your location.

Q What if I run out of paint?
In the unlikely event you do run out of paint (each kit comes with plenty of paint), contact Winnie's Picks and they will send you a new paint set!
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Q Can I purchase a paint-by-number kit for a friend?
Absolutely! The kits make unique gifts to give to others.

More questions? Feel free to send me an email at [email protected] :)

Purchase: Paint-by-Number Kit from Winnie's Picks

Have you tried out paint-by-number or Winnie's Picks? Share your experience in the comment section  below. Or let us know how you relax and unwind in a creative way!

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