Mistakes to Avoid as a Beginner in Paint by Numbers

Painting Made Easy — If You Know What Not to Do

Starting your first Paint by Numbers project is exciting — you’ve got your brushes, paints, and canvas all ready to go. But like any new creative hobby, there are a few common mistakes beginners often make that can turn a relaxing experience into a frustrating one.

The good news? They’re all easy to avoid once you know what to look out for.

At Paint Your Numbers, we’ve helped thousands of first-time painters bring their artwork to life, and we’ve seen what works (and what doesn’t). This guide will help you get the best results and enjoy every brushstroke.

Mistake #1: Not Organizing Your Workspace

Paint by Numbers might seem simple, but setup matters more than you think.

Before you start painting, make sure you have:

• A flat, well-lit surface.
• A cup of clean water for rinsing brushes.
• A cloth or paper towel for drying them.
• Good lighting — natural daylight is best.

Pro tip: Cover your table with newspaper or plastic to avoid accidental paint stains. A tidy workspace helps you stay relaxed and focused.

Mistake #2: Ignoring the Paint Numbers

Each color is labeled for a reason. Mixing them up — or skipping numbers — can make your final artwork look uneven.

Always check the number on your paint pot before dipping your brush. If two shades look similar, hold them up to the light — subtle differences can change the entire tone of your painting.

You can also label paint lids with the corresponding numbers if they’re hard to read.

Mistake #3: Using Too Much Paint

Less is more! A common beginner error is loading the brush with too much paint, which can cause messy lines, uneven texture, or even paint bleeding into other sections.

Dip your brush lightly, apply in thin layers, and smooth it out as you go. You can always add more later for better coverage.

Mistake #4: Rushing the Process

Paint by Numbers isn’t about speed — it’s about mindfulness and enjoyment. Trying to finish too quickly often leads to smudges or mistakes.

Take your time, let sections dry fully before switching colors, and use the process as a way to relax. Painting should feel peaceful, not pressured.

Mistake #5: Not Cleaning Brushes Often Enough

Paint dries fast — and when it dries on your brush, it becomes clumpy and hard to control.

• Rinse your brush often (especially between color changes).
• Wipe it on a towel before continuing to keep colors pure and lines crisp.
• If a brush starts to feel stiff, soak it in warm water for a few minutes to restore flexibility.

Mistake #6: Starting in the Wrong Spot

Many beginners start right in the middle of the canvas — and end up accidentally smudging wet paint.

Instead, start from the top and work your way down. This minimizes contact with painted areas and keeps your artwork neat.

If you’re left-handed, start from the top right; if you’re right-handed, start from the top left.

Mistake #7: Not Closing Paint Lids Properly

A simple but costly mistake — leaving paint lids open too long can cause colors to dry out.

Keep paints sealed when not in use and only open one or two at a time. If a paint pot starts drying, add a drop of water and stir gently to revive it.

Mistake #8: Skipping the Background

It’s easy to focus on the main subject and forget about the background, but finishing it can make your painting look complete and balanced.

Some artists like to paint the background first, while others prefer saving it for last — either way, don’t skip it!

Mistake #9: Forgetting to Enjoy the Process

Remember — Paint by Numbers isn’t a test. It’s a journey of color, patience, and creativity.

Don’t worry if you go outside the lines or mix colors a little differently. Every small imperfection makes your painting uniquely yours. Celebrate progress, not perfection.

Final Thoughts

Your first Paint by Numbers project should be fun, peaceful, and fulfilling. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you create artwork you’re proud of — and fall in love with the creative process.

Start your next masterpiece at paintyournumberss.com — and remember: every brushstroke brings you closer to becoming the artist you were meant to be.