Combining Paint by Numbers with Other Crafts

Paint by numbers is an accessible and rewarding hobby for artists of all ages and skill levels. But what if you could take it a step further? By combining paint by numbers with other creative crafts, you can elevate your artwork, explore new techniques, and make even more personalized, meaningful projects.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a creative parent, or a hobbyist looking to experiment, mixing paint by numbers with complementary crafts opens up a world of creative potential. In this article, we’ll explore fun, beautiful, and practical ways to blend this relaxing painting method with a variety of other artistic hobbies.

1. Paint by Numbers + Embroidery

One of the most elegant and visually appealing ways to enhance your canvas is by incorporating embroidery. After completing the painted canvas, stitch simple details on top:

• Outline flowers, leaves, or clothing with embroidery thread
• Add texture to skies or water with decorative stitches
• Use beads or French knots for added sparkle or depth

This mixed-media approach adds a tactile dimension to your artwork and transforms it into a unique textile piece suitable for framing or gifting.

2. Paint by Numbers + Decoupage

Decoupage is the art of decorating surfaces with paper cutouts. Once your paint by numbers piece is dry, you can:

• Add patterned paper borders around the canvas
• Overlay quotes, butterflies, or leaves made from tissue or scrapbook paper
• Mount the painting on a decoupaged wood panel or canvas board

Finish with a clear sealant like Mod Podge for a cohesive and glossy look. This is especially fun for seasonal or themed kits like spring florals or holiday scenes.

3. Paint by Numbers + Calligraphy or Hand Lettering

Custom lettering brings personality and storytelling to your artwork. Once the painting is complete:

• Add a quote or message in the background or border
• Use calligraphy pens or acrylic markers to inscribe names or dates
• Turn your painting into a DIY greeting card, wedding keepsake, or inspirational wall art

You can sketch your lettering with pencil first, then trace with permanent marker or paint pen for a clean finish.

4. Paint by Numbers + Resin Art

Looking for a glossy, professional finish? Pouring a layer of resin over your finished painting seals the colors and creates a vibrant, glass-like surface. You can also embed small items in the resin for extra flair:

• Glitter or confetti
• Pressed flowers or leaves
• Personalized tokens or names

This technique transforms your art into functional objects like coasters, trays, or decorative panels.

5. Paint by Numbers + Quilting or Sewing

If you're into textile arts, why not turn your finished canvas into fabric art?

• Scan and print your completed painting onto fabric transfer paper
• Sew it into a pillow cover, tote bag, or wall hanging
• Quilt around key features for added texture

This is a beautiful way to preserve your painted creations in practical, daily-use items.

6. Paint by Numbers + Scrapbooking

Scrapbooking offers a perfect opportunity to tell the story behind your artwork. Surround your completed paint by numbers image with:

• Photos from the moment you painted it
• Notes, travel stubs, or memory tokens
• Color swatches and painting progress shots

Bind everything into a keepsake scrapbook page or memory journal. This is ideal for commemorating events like weddings, anniversaries, or vacations.

7. Paint by Numbers + 3D Crafting

Turn a flat painting into a 3D masterpiece by layering elements with foam tape or craft board. Cut out pieces of your painting (or reprint it) and raise them up for dimension:

• Flowers and leaves
• Buildings, hills, or clouds
• Pets or people

This technique makes your artwork pop off the surface and turns it into a standout display piece.

8. Paint by Numbers + Digital Art

Digitize your finished paint by numbers piece by scanning or photographing it. From there, you can:

• Add digital overlays or filters
• Turn it into a printable calendar, card, or poster
• Create a personalized phone case or mug

You can also import it into a digital drawing app to add animation or enhancements before printing a final version.

9. Paint by Numbers + Stamping

Rubber stamps and ink pads let you add fun accents to your canvas. Try stamping:

• Borders with botanical or geometric stamps
• Decorative accents like stars or birds
• A signature block with your name or initials

Use waterproof ink or stamp after sealing the painting to prevent smudging. This works well for seasonal designs and holiday kits.

10. Paint by Numbers + Woodworking

Mount your finished canvas on a custom wood frame, tray, or box lid for a rustic, handcrafted feel. You can also:

• Burn wood designs to match the painting’s theme
• Add knobs or hardware for function
• Paint matching wood trim for a polished effect

This method is great for turning your art into home décor or heirloom pieces.

Why These Craft Combinations Work

Combining crafts isn’t just about adding more elements—it’s about making the painting process more creative and immersive. Each additional medium gives you the opportunity to explore textures, colors, and formats that standard paint by numbers doesn’t offer on its own.

Whether you’re mixing embroidery into your floral kits or sealing your pet portrait under a shiny resin finish, these craft mashups invite you to make something truly unique.

Featuring Paint Your Numbers

Paint Your Numbers makes it easy to get started with beautiful, detailed kits you can personalize further. With custom kits from your own photos and a wide selection of themed collections, they’re the perfect base for any hybrid craft project.

They even offer framed options, canvas sizes, and vibrant paints that hold up well whether you’re stitching over them or adding extra media.

Final Thoughts

Paint by numbers doesn’t have to stop with the last brushstroke. When you mix in other crafts, your painting becomes something more: a tactile, dimensional, personalized piece of creative expression.

So gather your glue gun, thread box, stamps, and sparkle—because your next paint by numbers masterpiece is just the beginning of your next crafting adventure.