The Easiest Paint by Numbers Mistakes for Beginners to Make (and How to Avoid Them)

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Congratulations on stepping into the rewarding and stress-relieving world of Paint by Numbers!

Paint by Numbers is an art form that allows anyone to achieve satisfying results quickly. However, even with the simplest hobbies, beginners often face small frustrations. Knowing these common mistakes and mastering the avoidance techniques will save you time and allow you to fully enjoy your creation.

Here are the six most common Paint by Numbers beginner mistakes and simple, professional ways to avoid them:

 

I. Paint and Brush-Related Mistakes (Paint Management)

 

The condition of your paint and the cleanliness of your tools are crucial for the finished look of your Paint by Numbers artwork.

 

1. Mistake: Painting with Dry or Thick Paint

 

Many beginners use the thick, concentrated paint straight from the pot. This results in poor adhesion, uneven color application, and visible brush strokes, making it hard to cover the numbers.

• 🎨 How to Avoid:

  • Dilute: Always add 1-2 drops of water to the paint before mixing. Stir until the paint reaches a smooth, "creamy" or "yogurt-like" consistency.

  • Test: Ensure the paint flows easily and smoothly covers the numbers and lines without leaving thick lumps.

 

2. Mistake: Not Thoroughly Cleaning the Brush When Switching Colors

 

When changing from a dark color (like black) to a lighter color (like white or yellow), residual dark pigment on the brush will contaminate the light color, resulting in muddy or dull hues.

• 🧼 How to Avoid:

  • Wash Completely: Thoroughly rinse the brush in your water cup until the water runs mostly clear.

  • Blot Dry: Use a paper towel or cloth to gently blot dry the bristles. This removes excess water and remaining pigment, preventing the paint from being over-diluted.

 

II. Coloring Order and Technique Mistakes (Painting Process)

 

A poor coloring order can decrease efficiency and increase the risk of accidental smudges.

 

3. Mistake: Coloring Randomly and Switching Colors Too Often

 

New painters often jump between sections, which leads to frequent brush cleaning and opening/closing paint pots, wasting time and potentially drying out the paint.

• ⏱️ How to Avoid:

  • Batch by Number: Strictly follow the principle of "one color at a time." Select one number (e.g., all the '3's) and completely fill all corresponding areas on the canvas before cleaning the brush and moving to the next number.

  • Top-to-Bottom: Adopt the habit of painting from the top of the canvas downwards. This helps you avoid accidentally leaning on and smudging areas of paint that are not yet dry.

 

4. Mistake: Painting Outside the Lines or Failing to Cover the Numbers

 

These are the most common visual errors. A sloppy border or thin paint that allows the printed number to show through compromises the final look.

• 🎯 How to Avoid:

  • Use the Fine Brush: Always use the finest brush in your kit to outline the borders and corners. Once the edges are defined, use the larger brush to fill in the center.

  • Layer the Light Colors: For light colors (like white, yellow, or pastels), ensure the paint is thick enough to cover the printed numbers. If the first layer is too thin, wait for it to dry completely, then apply a second layer for full coverage.

 

III. Tool Management and Mindset Mistakes (Habits and Attitude)

 

Poor tool care and excessive pressure can prevent you from sticking with the hobby.

 

5. Mistake: Not Sealing the Paint Pots Tightly After Use

 

Acrylic paint dries out very quickly. If the lid is not securely closed, air will enter, and your paint will harden and become unusable by your next session.

• 🔒 How to Avoid:

  • Listen for the Click: After every painting session, make sure to firmly snap the lid shut on every pot. Listen for the distinct "click" sound, ensuring the seal is airtight.

  • First Aid for Dry Paint: If the paint has unfortunately dried out, you can try adding a small amount of hot water and letting it sit with the lid closed for a few hours to attempt softening it.

 

6. Mistake: Rushing or Comparing Your Progress to Others

 

The purpose of Paint by Numbers is relaxation. If you focus too much on speed or achieving perfection, you introduce unnecessary stress.

• 🧘 How to Avoid:

  • Enjoy the Process: Remind yourself that this is not a race. Set a comfortable pace and view the painting as your daily meditation time.

  • Mistakes are Fixable: The great thing about acrylic paint is that it is opaque. If you make a mistake, simply wait for the paint to dry completely, then use the correct color to paint right over it.

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Summary:

Paint by Numbers is an incredibly forgiving hobby. By avoiding these common beginner mistakes, such as properly managing paint consistency and keeping your brushes clean, you will be able to complete your artwork more efficiently. Now, put your worries aside and go enjoy your therapeutic creative journey!