Beginner's Guide: How to Choose Your First Canvas

The essentials of Painting by Numbers: How to start by choosing your first canvas?

Welcome budding artists, this article is especially for you! Do you want to embark on the wonderfully colourful world of Painting by Numbers? You've come to the right place!  Indeed, choosing your first painting can be both exciting and a little intimidating, but don't worry, we're here to help, as always. This article is a user-friendly guide that will help you choose the ideal paint by numbers kit that fits your style.

So, grab a cup of coffee (or your favourite drink!), make yourself comfortable and let's embark on this artistic journey together. You'll be creating masterpieces in no time!

Quick reminder: What is Painting by Numbers?

It is is a delightful art form in which an image is divided into shapes, each marked with a number corresponding to a specific colour. It's a bit like a puzzle with a colour code. Your mission? Follow the numbers! Fill in each shape with the colour that corresponds to the number assigned to it. Piece by piece, you'll see your artwork come to life. No need to worry about choosing colours or mastering complex techniques, your encrypted painting kit will guide you every step of the way. It's a fun, relaxing, and satisfying way to unleash your creative potential, regardless of your artistic level. So, ready to choose your first painting?

First step, properly assess the level of difficulty.

In order to ensure the success of your work and not to be disappointed, it is essential to take into account the level of difficulty of your first project. Wondering how to evaluate it? Start by looking at the number of colours in the kit. More colours often mean greater complexity, as it requires greater attention to detail. Next, check the complexity of the pattern: a drawing with many small, tight sections may be more difficult to achieve than a drawing with larger, wider surfaces. Also, don't forget the size of the canvas: a larger painting can give a grander result, but it also means that it will take more time and patience. Choose a project that matches your comfort level and remember that it's about enjoying the process as much as the end result. When ordering your first kit, check with your seller (or online store) that the difficulty level is indicated so as not to make a mistake. If in doubt, don't hesitate to ask!

Let's get down to business: 

The subject of your painting...

The choice of a subject that resonates with you is the basis of a fulfilling artistic journey. You will spend a lot of time with the drawing you have chosen, so it is essential to opt for a subject that you are passionate or motivated about. Do serene landscapes or a particular animal captivate you? Maybe recreating a famous painting has always been on your to-do list? There are a multitude of topics that suit all styles and interests. When you feel involved in your project, the process becomes more enjoyable, and the end result is a real labour of love.

... and the end goal

When thinking about your favourite subject, think about the end goal of your painting because these two aspects are closely linked: do you envisage that the finished work will adorn a particular place in your home? If so, you may want to adapt the subject and size to the space of the room as well as the colours and style of the room chosen. Is the painting intended to be a gift for a friend or family member? Think about their tastes and what would make them smile. Or do you simply want to relax, disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? In this case, focus on a topic that will bring you pleasure and allow you to relax. 

Remember that the lens of your painting can guide you to the ideal subject and make the experience even more rewarding.

The size of the painting and the colours

Another crucial factor to consider is the size of the painting. The dimensions of your canvas can have an impact not only on the complexity of your project, but also on the time required to complete it. A larger canvas, with its greater number of sections to paint, can be a rewarding challenge, but it will naturally require more time. In addition, the size of the finished work will determine where it can be displayed, so you will need to consider the space you have.

Once the practical aspects of size are considered, it's time to look at a more aesthetic aspect: the colour palette. Colour has the power to evoke mood, stimulate emotions, and fundamentally influence the pleasure we experience in painting. Some of us are drawn to bright, bold colours that bring a burst of energy to our canvases, while others prefer the tranquillity of more sober and earthy tones. The colour palette is a deeply personal choice, and there is no right or wrong choice – only what speaks to you. When choosing your Paint by Numbers kit, considering a colour palette in harmony with the size and subject of the painting will allow you to start painting in complete agreement with yourself!

The practical aspects that will guide your choice:

The quality of the paint kit

Now that you're excited about the size, subject, and colour palette of your potential project, let's talk about another fundamental element: the quality of the kit. A high-quality paint by numbers kit is definitely worth the investment. Look for a kit that includes a durable canvas, quality brushes, and paints that don't dry quickly. By checking online reviews of the seller or brand, you'll be able to get an idea of the experience of other amateur artists to make sure you're getting value for your money.

The time available for your work

When embarking on the adventure of painting by numbers, it is important to have a realistic estimate of the time you can devote to your project. More detailed drawings or larger canvases will naturally take longer to make. Remember that Painting by Numbers should be a relaxing activity, not a race against time. Think carefully about whether you have whole days to paint, or just a few hours (or less!) a week.

Let's talk money!

It is obviously necessary to take into account the subject of price and budget. Although Paint by Numbers kits are generally affordable, there may be price variations depending on factors such as the size, complexity, and quality of the kit. By considering your budget when choosing your kit, you ensure that your trip into Painting by Numbers will not only be creative and relaxing, but also without financial stress. Remember that very often, a few pounds more can avoid unpleasant surprises (brushes that break, paints that dry etc.)

So, ready to choose your first paint by numbers kit?

In conclusion, choosing your first Painting by Numbers project is just as important a step as the realization itself. From the subject and size of your painting to the colour palette and quality of the kit, there's a lot to consider.

But never forget that your instincts are a powerful guide in this artistic journey. Let your heart guide your choices and make this process as joyful as the outcome. In case of doubt, do not hesitate to contact us, we are always here to help you.You can also explore our website for inspiration and advice

Happy painting!