I’m nostalgic to a fault so whenever I see a paint by number kit, I’m immediately transported back to my childhood. Paint by number kits were everything to me as a kid!
I’m definitely not an artistic person when it comes to drawing/painting, so I think I appreciated (And still appreciate) paint by number kits because it allows me to feel accomplished in a way that regular painting usually doesn’t.
Plus, Don’t get me started on how wonderfully it brings about a period of hyperfocus!
What is a Paint by Number kit?
Paint by number kits include a printed outline of what’s to be painted and typically (ideally!) include a brush and little pots of numbered paint. Most paint by number kits are acrylic and oil paints, however I have seen some that use watercolors. Acrylic paints are definitely my preference as they dry quickly and are great for beginners!
Is Paint by Number cheating?
When I brought up these kits to a friend, she mentioned that they always left her feeling like she was cheating. To which I said – HA! While I’m all about celebrating our unique skills and talents, it’s also okay to take a step back and relax. It’s like those paint night parties – is it cheating since everyone is painting the exact same thing, following step-by-step? Of course not!
Our paint by number kids good for kids?
Not only do I still enjoy paint by number kits myself, but they’re actually also really great for kids. Especially right now as the kids are home for summer and need extra activities!
What are the benefits to paint by number kits for kids?
- Improves hand-eye coordination
- Builds fine motor skills
- Encourages creativity
- Stimulates visualization of abstract concepts
- Nurtures ability to count and color coordinate
- Keeps them happy and busy
- Allows them to feel proud of what they accomplish
Benefits of Paint by Number for adults
Even if your kids aren’t into the activity, that doesn’t mean to toss the notion altogether! Personally, I find paint by number kits to be meditative and help with reducing my stress levels. I find that painting in this way allows me to take the focus off “what am I making” and more toward relaxing.
So the other day when I found out that you could buy a custom paint by number, I knew I had to have it!
Custom Paint by Number kits
The company I went with not only has dozens of pre-made paint by numbers to choose from, but you can order a custom paint by number! I absolutely love the idea of taking a family photo and turning it into a paint by number. I imagine my kids would also very much enjoy a paint by number of their own faces, which would make for a great birthday or holiday gift.
If you do a paint by number, I’m curious – do you start numerically, beginning at one and working up, or do you go by the colors? I’d love it if you would comment below and let me know!
