Looking for a calm, creative project to enjoy with your child? Paint by numbers kits are a lovely way to slow down together, whether it’s a wet afternoon, a school holiday, or just an evening when you fancy sitting down and creating something as a family.
We’ve teamed up with Schoolbooks.ie to bring you an easy guide to painting by numbers, so you can pick up a kit and get started with confidence. You’ll find everything you need on the Schoolbooks.ie website, ordered online and delivered to your door, ready to paint.
Painting By Numbers
You Will Need
- Paint by Numbers kit
- A tub or glass of water (a jar lid works well — less water to spill if there’s an accident!)
- A container for mixing paints together
- Kitchen roll, for dabbing a wet paintbrush
- Something to protect the table, if you’d rather not get paint on it
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Find everything you need for this project at Schoolbooks.ie, where you’ll find a great selection of art and craft materials, from drawing to painting to crafting and more.
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Painting by Numbers Tips
1. Pick a kit that is suitable for your child’s age and ability.
2. Give yourself time — it can feel a little tricky to begin with, but once you get going it’s very straightforward.
3. To avoid smudging, work on the top half of the canvas before moving to the bottom half.
4. Paint the large areas first.
5. Less is more when it comes to paint — you can always add more, but it’s difficult to take away!
6. Always keep the paint pots closed when you’re not using them, so they don’t dry out or harden.
7. Leave the white colour until the end. That way, if you’ve gone over the lines, you can fix it with white!
8. Leave colours to dry before you start the next one.
9. Enjoy it — this project is perfect for rainy days, or any time you want to sit and enjoy your child’s company. It works well as a parent-and-child project, whether you’re each painting your own or helping each other with one canvas. It also lends itself nicely to a week-long project, done a little at a time.
TOP CRAFTY TIP: Go over the lighter colours a second time at the end of the project, to make sure the numbers are completely covered.
Now, all that’s left to decide is where you’re going to hang your masterpiece!
Schoolbooks.ie has everything a busy parent might need throughout the school year, from school supplies and stationery to learning resources and lunch items. They also stock plenty of ideas for birthdays or a rainy day at home, including children’s books, face paints, painting sets, educational toys and games. Browse more at www.schoolbooks.ie.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is paint by numbers suitable for?
Paint by numbers kits come in a range of difficulty levels, so there’s usually an option to suit most ages. Simpler kits with larger sections and fewer colours work well for younger children, while more detailed canvases suit older kids and adults. Check the kit’s recommended age before buying.
How long does a paint by numbers project take?
This depends on the size and detail of the canvas. Smaller, simpler kits might be finished in an hour or two, while larger or more detailed ones can be spread across several sittings — which makes them a great ongoing project for school holidays.
Can younger children take part even if they can’t paint independently?
Yes — younger children can join in with support from a parent or older sibling, taking turns with sections or colours. It’s a lovely shared activity even if a grown-up ends up doing some of the trickier detail.
What’s the best way to store a kit if we don’t finish it in one go?
Keep the paint pots tightly closed between sessions so they don’t dry out, and store the canvas somewhere flat and dry until you’re ready to pick it back up.
Related Articles
- Easy Craft Ideas For A Rainy Day
- Fun Art Projects To Try At Home With Your Kids
- Screen-Free Activities To Keep Kids Busy During The Holidays
Save This For Later
If you’re not ready to start your paint by numbers project just yet, save this article for the next rainy afternoon, or browse our other easy craft ideas for more inspiration.
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