Most paint by numbers frustrations come down to a handful of problems: numbers showing through, paint drying out, edges that won't stay clean, a section you can't identify. None of them mean you're bad at painting. They're just the quirks of the format, and every one has a simple fix.
Our step-by-step painting guide covers the basics. This page is the troubleshooting companion: the tips and tricks that solve the problems people actually run into, organized by problem.
Problems with the paint
1. The numbers show through light colors
This is the most common complaint, and it's normal. Pale colors like white, cream and light yellow are less opaque. Let the first coat dry fully, then add a second thin coat. For very light sections, cover the printed number first with a white acrylic paint pen (we include a free Whiteout Pen with every kit order), let it dry, then paint.
2. The paint is thick or drying out
Stir in one drop of water with the end of your brush and mix well. Add more only if needed: too much water makes paint streaky and see-through. To prevent it, close each pot as soon as you've finished with that color, and never leave pots open between sessions.
3. The paint looks streaky
You're probably using too little paint or too much water. Load the brush with a creamy amount of paint, lay it on in one direction, and don't keep brushing over areas that have started to dry. A second coat once it's dry will even it out.
4. A pot is running low
Use it sparingly on the last few sections, and don't dilute it to stretch it. If you run out, email us with your order number and the color numbers, and we'll send extra paint free of charge.
Problems with the canvas
5. You can't read a number
Check the printed reference sheet that comes with the kit, where every section is marked. A magnifier or your phone's camera zoom helps with tiny sections. If a number is truly missing, match the section to the neighboring colors on the reference image.
6. The rolled canvas won't lie flat
Before you start painting, lay it face down under a few heavy books overnight, or iron the back on a low setting. Taping the corners to the table while you paint also helps.
7. The lines are hard to see in dark areas
Paint the dark areas last, and work in good daylight. If a line disappears under paint, check the reference sheet, which shows the outlines clearly.
Problems with technique
8. Edges keep going over the lines
Use your smallest brush for edges and a larger one for the middle of each section. Pull the brush toward you rather than pushing it. Paint sections that don't touch each other first, so their neighbors are dry when you come back to fill the gaps.
9. You painted the wrong color
Let it dry completely, then paint over it with the correct color. Acrylic covers itself well. For a light color over a dark mistake, you may need two or three thin coats.
10. Your hand smudges wet paint
Work from the top of the canvas down, so your hand never rests on wet paint. If you're left-handed, go from top right to bottom left. An artist glove also stops smudges and keeps skin oils off the canvas.
11. Tiny sections are impossible
Use a very fine brush (our extra fine detail brushes help a lot), rest your wrist on the table, rotate the canvas toward you, and take your time. On your next kit, choose fewer colors or a larger canvas for bigger sections.
Problems with the brushes
12. Bristles are splayed
Never leave brushes soaking in water. Rinse, gently reshape the tip with your fingers, and let them dry flat or standing bristles-up. If a brush is already splayed, dip it in warm water, reshape it and let it dry wrapped in a strip of paper.
13. Paint dried on a brush
Soak just the bristles in warm soapy water for a few minutes, then work the paint out gently with your fingers. For future sessions, rinse brushes whenever you change colors.
Problems with motivation
14. The painting looks messy halfway through
Everyone hits this point. A half-painted canvas always looks chaotic because the white gaps break up the image. Keep going. It usually comes together suddenly in the last third.
15. You've lost momentum
Set a small goal instead of a time target: "finish color 12 tonight." Leave the canvas and paints set up where you'll see them. Painting with a friend or putting on a podcast also helps a lot.
Quick fixes, at a glance
- Numbers showing? Second coat, or cover the number with a white pen
- Thick paint? One drop of water, stir well
- Mistake? Let it dry, paint over it
- Smudging? Work top to bottom
- Tiny sections? Fine brush, rotate the canvas
Once you've finished, our guide to finishing, varnishing and framing a paint by numbers covers the final steps. Looking for your next project? Our beginner kits have larger sections, and mini paint by numbers sets are quick to finish. For ideas on what to paint small, see our mini canvas painting ideas.
Tools that make painting easier
Detail brushes, whiteout pens, easels and more, all made for paint by numbers.
Shop accessoriesFrequently asked questions
How do you stop numbers from showing through paint by numbers?
Add a second thin coat once the first is dry. For very pale colors, cover the printed number with a white acrylic paint pen before painting.
Can you add water to paint by numbers paint?
Yes, but only a drop at a time. A little water revives thick paint, but too much makes it streaky and see-through.
How do you fix a mistake in paint by numbers?
Let the paint dry completely, then paint over it with the correct color. Acrylic paint is opaque enough to cover itself, though light colors over dark ones may need extra coats.
Should you paint by color or by section?
Painting one color at a time is usually faster and keeps colors clean, since you rinse less often. Work from the top of the canvas down to avoid smudging.
