What is Paint by Numbers and Other FAQ's

Can you still remember the very first time you heard the phrase “paint by numbers?” Well, the memory may not be very clear to everyone but this system has existed since the period of the Renaissance. However, it wasn’t until the early 1950s when a man named Dan Robbins created a kit inspired by the system invented by Leonardo da Vinci (others credit this system to Michelangelo) and inspired millions of people to start and enjoy painting.

The trend often comes and goes but since the pandemic, people seem to find paint by numbers enjoyable again. It offers them a sweet escape from boredom and the stresses of everyday life. Moreover, immersing in the activity is valuable because it teaches them the basic fundamental lessons of art.

With such, many people have heard about the kits already but we cannot assume that everyone knows what the hype is and what it’s all about. So, if you’re new in the field of art and wonder what is paint by numbers, this article is perfect for you because we will be answering some of the most important questions about the kit. Keep on reading to learn more.

PBN kits started as simple painting kits intended for adults during the post-World War II era who wanted to learn something new and fill the gaps of mundane life. At the same time, the inventor of the kit wanted to share something valuable with art enthusiasts and regular people by helping them experience what it feels like to be a painter without the need of joining art classes, go to art school, or hire an expensive tutor to learn how to paint.

Who knew that making artworks can be fun and easy as 1, 2, 3? No one knew such until Dan Robbins made it possible. From simple painting kits to adults, other companies started to make spinoffs of the kits including the kit version of PBN kits, coloring books, and even digital apps that do the same purpose.

Despite the negative criticism the kits have received from the “real” art world, they have truly made an impact on mass consumers because they’ve made art more accessible– the kits are affordable, easy to use, and fun. 

What is Paint by Numbers?

This question has been asked by many people, especially at the height of its popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Accordingly, painting by numbers is a system or painting technique for beginners. Because of its simplicity, many critics have attacked the method of the kits because it is deemed to be methodical, formulaic, and uncreative.

The system of the kit is divided into different shapes of various sizes that form a single picture as a whole. Each shape or segment is assigned with numbers that correspond to a particular color. For example, the number “1” corresponds to the color yellow, “2” to orange, and so forth.

You just have to fill in each segment with the proper color to reveal the beautiful image on the canvas.

How is Leonardo da Vinci Connected With the Paint by Numbers System?

While Dan Robbins is the inventor of the original Paint by Numbers kits known as Craft Master, he revealed in his autobiography that he didn’t come up with the idea all by himself. It came from one of the world’s beloved master painters during the Renaissance period.

According to Robbins’ biography, he was inspired by the teaching method of Da Vinci in his workshop for his apprentices who wanted to follow in his footsteps. 

Based on his accounts, Da Vinci would draw images on a canvas, put numbers to it, and assign particular colors or layers to the painting. The numbers would specify which was for the imprimatur, background colors, foreshadows, etc.

Fast forward to the 1950s and Dan Robbins came up with the genius idea to create a kit that will inspire millions of non-painters to grab their paintbrush and experience the life-changing magic of creating artwork. Truly, everyone can be a Rembrandt, just like the tagline of Craft Master.

Are Paint by Numbers Kits Worth Buying?

The answer is yes! Paint by Numbers kits offers plenty of advantages. Not only are they beneficial to your mental health, but they’re also educational and offer a great escape and hobby, especially for those people who want to relieve stress without the use of their gadgets. Moreover, it is a good hobby because it allows you to spend time by yourself and practice mindfulness, step away from technology, and practice your creativity and imagination.

If some people think that PBN kits are uncreative, that’s where they’re wrong! You can choose your photos and turn them into a canvas that you can paint through Custom Paint by Numbers and at the same time, experiment with the canvas to make it look better.

What are the Materials that Come Inside the Kit?

The great thing about PBN kits is that they’re not just affordable, but the materials are also of high grade to ensure that the overall aesthetic quality of your painting will not be compromised. With such, we guarantee satisfaction in every kit that has the following materials:

• 1 high quality 40 x 50 cm pre-printed canvas

• A set of basic paint brushes: 1 small, 1 medium, 1 large

• A set of acrylic paint (24 color, 36 color, 48 color, depending on your choice– applicable for Custom PBN kits only. For fixed design kits, each kit has 24 colors)

If you’re a beginner who worries about the complicated preparation process of applying primer to the canvas or pre-mixing the paints, you don’t have to worry about that when you purchase this kit because everything is ready to use! You just have to paint and enjoy.

Can I Actually Learn How to Paint Using These Kits?

Other than the question “what is paint by numbers?” Another question often asked us is if they can learn how to paint just by using these kits. The answer is yes but of course, you have to level up or advance your lessons once you have fully grasped the basics that you have learned from using these kits.

While PBN kits may not fully teach you everything you need to know about painting, they can teach you the basic fundamental concepts, elements, and principles of art that are crucial in this field. 

Some of the things that you can learn from the painting by numbers technique are color theory, how to blend, how to control your brushwork, play with light and dark hues, and so many other techniques. 

Even though the instructions of the kit are clear and simple, that doesn’t mean that you should limit yourself to the rules, though! You can still play with the colors, create textures, and go crazy with your creativity. The fun simply never stops with this kit.

Key Takeaways

We hope we were able to satisfy your curiosity about the question “what is paint by numbers?” as well as the other frequently asked questions about the kits. Grab your paint by numbers kits and start painting the stress away one number at a time. Make your life even more colorful, escape reality for a little while, take a deep breath, pause, and reflect. 

Remember, there is so much more to life than doing our work and chores. By creating art, we appreciate and see the beauty of life the way we never did before. Start your creative journey with Best Paint by Numbers today. Click here to see the different kits that you can enjoy from the company. Happy painting!