Paint by Numbers vs. Diamond Painting: Which Hobby Is Right for You?

If you're looking for a relaxing, creative hobby that doesn’t require professional skills, both paint by numbers and diamond painting offer wonderful ways to unwind. But which one is right for you? While both provide similar benefits—stress relief, artistic satisfaction, and a sense of accomplishment—they differ in tools, techniques, and overall experience.

In this article, we’ll be comparing paint by numbers and diamond painting across a variety of factors to help you decide which hobby best suits your style, personality, and lifestyle.

What Is Paint by Numbers?

Paint by numbers is a guided art activity where an image is divided into numbered sections that correspond with specific paint colors. Using brushes and acrylic paints, you fill in each section to reveal a complete painting.

What you need:

• Pre-printed, numbered canvas
• Acrylic paints (provided in kit)
  
• Paintbrushes
  
• Water cup and paper towels

Ideal for: Those who enjoy traditional painting, soft brushstrokes, and working with color palettes

Diamond Painting

Diamond painting is a mosaic-style art form where tiny resin "diamonds" are placed onto a sticky canvas according to a coded chart. The finished piece sparkles like a gem-encrusted image.

• Adhesive canvas with symbol guide
• Colored resin diamonds
• Diamond applicator pen
• Tray and wax pad

Ideal for: Those who like tactile precision, sparkling designs, and non-messy crafts.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Paint by Numbers	Diamond Painting
Art Style	Traditional painted look	Shimmering mosaic effect
Materials Used	Acrylic paints & brushes	Resin diamonds & stylus tool
Setup Mess	May involve spills, water, clean-up	Minimal mess, dry components
Time Commitment	Moderate to high (10–20 hours)	Moderate to high (10–20 hours)
Fine Motor Skill Use	Moderate	High (small diamond placement)
Visual Impact	Smooth gradients & blended tones	Bold, sparkly finish
Customization	High (custom kits with your photos)	High (custom kits with your photos)
Storage & Framing	Easier to frame and hang	May require special framing to hold diamonds
Portability	Less portable (requires setup)	Highly portable & easy to pause
Stress Relief	Strong (meditative painting)	Strong (repetitive placement)

Benefits of Paint by Numbers

1. Creative Expression
   Even with pre-set outlines, you can blend, highlight, or enhance colors to create a unique piece.
2. Hands-on Painting Skills
   Perfect for beginners who want to improve brushwork, color theory, or techniques.
3. Traditional Artistic Result
   The finished piece looks like a painted canvas—ideal for classic home décor or gifts.
4. Deeper Engagement
   Painting can require more active decision-making, making it great for people seeking immersive focus.
   

Benefits of Diamond Painting

1. Quick to Start
   No need for mixing paints or drying time—just pick up your pen and begin placing diamonds.
2. Mess-Free
   No spills, brushes, or water cups. Great for apartments, shared spaces, or kids.
3. Shiny, Eye-Catching Results
   The sparkly finish gives a unique aesthetic that appeals to fans of bold visuals.
4. Soothing and Repetitive  
   The placement process is rhythmic and satisfying, like completing a puzzle.

Which One Is Right for You?

Consider these questions to decide:

• Do you enjoy working with paint, textures, and colors?
  Try paint by numbers.
• Do you prefer clean, no-fuss activities?
  Go with diamond painting.
• Are you looking for a quiet, meditative practice with a classical result?
  Paint by numbers is your match.
• Do you love glitter, sparkle, and detailed precision?
  Diamond painting delivers that wow factor.
• Want to create a meaningful gift from a photo?
  Both hobbies offer custom kits—choose based on your recipient’s taste.

Custom Kits: Available for Both!

One major advantage of both hobbies is the ability to turn your personal photos into art:

• A cherished pet
• A wedding memory
  
• A favorite travel destination
  
• A beloved family portrait

Paint Your Numbers let you upload your photo and choose between a custom paint by numbers kit or a diamond painting version.

Can’t Decide? Try Both!

There’s no reason you have to choose just one. Many crafters enjoy alternating between the two hobbies to keep things fresh. You might:

• Paint by numbers in the winter for cozy indoor evenings
  
• Work on diamond painting during travel or vacations
  
• Use paint by numbers for gifts and diamond painting for décor

The skills you develop in one can complement the other, enhancing your overall creativity and fine motor coordination.

Final Thoughts

Paint by numbers and diamond painting each offer a rewarding escape from the digital world, inviting you to slow down and create something beautiful with your own hands.

If you love color blending, brush techniques, and classical art results, paint by numbers is your ideal pick. If you're drawn to sparkle, structure, and satisfying repetition, diamond painting may be your new favorite hobby.

Still unsure? Start with a small custom kit from Paint Your Numbers and discover which creative journey feels just right for you.