Unboxing a Paint by Numbers Kit: What to Expect

Photo: Aleksandr Bogdan Gita

Most people order their first paint-by-numbers kit with a rough idea of ​​what they’re going to receive, but then the box arrives and they’re not quite sure what half of the items will be used for. Confusion in the moment is completely normal. Unboxing a paint-by-numbers kit is actually one of the more enjoyable aspects of the experience, especially once you understand what each piece does.

In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what’s in the box, how to make sure everything is correct, and what to do before you pick up your first brush. The breakdown is as follows:

Canvas: your painted surface

You will notice that the canvas is slightly grainy. This texture is intentional as it helps the paint grip the surface evenly and prevent streaking. If your canvas arrives rolled, lay it flat on the table a few hours before you start working on it. Place a few books on the edge to help you relax. At first, small wrinkles won’t be much of a problem. These usually disappear once the paint is applied and the canvas dries. Please read the numbered sections carefully before proceeding. This gives you a mental map of the painting and makes the whole process less taxing from the beginning.

Paint pot: small jar, big impact

Paint pots are small plastic jars, each with a number that matches the section on the canvas. Most standard kits contain 20 to 40 paint pots, depending on the complexity of the design. The paint itself is water-based acrylic, so it dries relatively quickly, is easy to clean with water, and is safe to use at home without the need for special ventilation equipment.

Each pot is sealed with a lid to prevent drying during transportation. Before opening, give each jar a gentle shake to make sure no paint has settled inside or separated. If you open the pot and find that the paint is thick or the surface looks a little dry, add a drop or two of water and stir with a toothpick until the consistency is smooth and you can work with it again. These paints are designed to be opaque, so even dark areas of the canvas will be completely covered in one or two coats. Always keep the lid tightly closed when you are not actively using a particular color. This prevents evaporation between painting sessions.

Brushes: What they are and how to use them

Most paint-by-numbers kits include a set of small brushes (usually two or three) with various tip sizes. Fine-tipped brushes are suitable for small, detailed areas where precision is important. A slightly wider brush allows you to quickly fill in large blocks of color without constantly reloading the paint.

The brushes that come with the standard kit will work. They aren’t always professional, but they can get the job done, especially for beginners, and if used correctly, you’ll probably get satisfactory results. Wash each brush thoroughly for each color and dry the bristles briefly on a paper towel before dipping into the next pot.

Reference Sheet: Color Guide

All paint-by-numbers kits come with a reference sheet or color guide, and this little piece of paper is much more useful than it first appears. The reference sheet provides a complete list of numbered paint pots and a small color swatch for each paint pot. It acts as a decoder when the section of numbers printed on the canvas is small and difficult to read.

Some kits also include a miniature printed version of the finished painting on a reference sheet. This is really helpful as it gives you a visual goal to aim for as the project progresses. If a section of your canvas starts to look confusing or patchy, hold that section next to the finished image on your reference sheet and compare what you see. You’ll quickly see which areas need more coverage.

Instead of folding your reference sheet, keep it flat and accessible throughout your painting session. Wrinkles or dirt on the reference sheet can make numbered swatches difficult to read, especially if the colors are similar in the pot but distinct in the finished painting.

Photo: Mbela

Optional accessories that may be included

Depending on where you order from and what stage of kit you purchase, your box may contain a few additional items beyond the main four. Wooden frames and stretcher bars may come with high-end kits that allow you to mount and display your finished canvas without purchasing a separate frame. Some kits come with hanging hooks already installed.

Other common additions:

– Numbered sticker dots or magnifying lens to help identify small areas on canvas

– Sponge brush or blending tool for soft gradient effects

– Small instructions with tips for tackling different types of sections

Not all kits include all of these, and honestly, that’s okay. All you need to complete your painting are basic items such as a canvas, paint pot, brushes, and a reference sheet. Other features are meant to make the process a little smoother or to give you a more refined view of the results once you’re done.

Conclusion…