Getting started with painting for a beginner can feel a little tricky, especially if you’re not sure where to start. That’s where paint by number kits can be a big help. Instead of having to figure everything out on your own, you just follow the numbered parts and watch the picture come together one piece at a time.
We’ve met many people who say they haven’t painted since grade school, but they want to start again. With the colder months bringing more time indoors, now’s a great moment to try something simple, creative, and a little relaxing. If you’re thinking about trying this for the first time, the tips below can help you choose a kit that fits what you need and keeps things fun from the start.
Pick a Picture That Makes You Smile
One of the simplest ways to enjoy painting is to start with an image you like to look at. You’re going to be spending a bit of time with it, so it really helps to pick something that feels fun or peaceful to paint. Our collection for adults ranges from calm landscapes and cozy cabins to animals and floral scenes, so you can choose a subject that already feels familiar and enjoyable to you.
When choosing your first kit, try to go with an image that:
• Feels familiar or comforting, like a favorite animal, beach scene, or mountain view
• Doesn’t have too many tiny or complicated details
• Uses clear shapes and softer lines that are easier to follow
A bright blue sky or a calm lake scene could be less stressful to start with than a crowded city or a group of people. If the picture makes you smile, that’s usually a good sign it’s worth painting.
Check the Difficulty Level Before You Start
Some paint by number kits are easier than others. The good news is, there’s usually a way to tell how simple or tricky a kit might be just by looking at a few details.
Pay attention to things like:
• How many paint colors are in the kit
• The size of the sections and how small or close together they are
• Whether the canvas is marked beginner, medium, or advanced
Too many tiny areas and lots of color switching can make painting less calming, especially if you’re just starting out. A good beginner kit usually has fewer color changes and a mix of medium and large spaces that are easier on the eyes and hands. You want painting to feel relaxing, not frustrating.
Make Sure You Have the Right Supplies
Most kits come with the basics, like a canvas, some brushes, and paint pots. Our paint by numbers kit for adults includes a pre-primed premium canvas, a full set of instructions, four brushes of different sizes, vacuum sealed acrylic paints, a small photo of the finished painting, and an 11" x 17" printout of the canvas to use as a reference. Still, it’s smart to slow down and check that everything you need is there before starting.
Here’s what can help make the space more comfortable:
• A clean surface with plenty of room to lay out your kit
• An extra cup for rinsing brushes and a towel or paper napkin to dry them
• Good lighting, whether it’s near a window or with a lamp that doesn’t throw shadows
We’ve found that painting feels easier and more fun when you’re not interrupted by missing supplies or bad lighting. A quiet space, either by yourself or with soft background music, lets your mind settle in and focus.
Start Small So You Don’t Get Overwhelmed
It might feel exciting to jump into the biggest, most detailed painting you can find. But for painting for a beginner, smaller is usually better at first. A medium or even small-sized canvas can be just the right call. We offer canvas sizes starting at 12" x 16" and going up to 18" x 24", so choosing one of the smaller sizes at first can make your early projects feel more manageable.
Large kits can take a long time to finish, and that can start to feel like work instead of fun. Starting smaller gives you the chance to learn the basics, like how thick to let the paint sit and how long it takes to dry between color blocks.
Finishing your first painting quickly can help you feel proud and more confident. That confidence often builds momentum to try a bigger one next time. The goal is to enjoy the process and not feel stuck halfway through.
Enjoy the Process, Not Just the Finished Picture
Painting is one of those things where the journey matters just as much as the end result. Don’t worry about being perfect. No one’s looking to see if you stayed inside every line or blended each color exactly right.
As you paint, try to give your mind a little space to slow down. If things feel rushed or your shoulders start to get tight, it might be time for a quick break. Let the picture come together bit by bit.
It helps to focus more on how painting feels in the moment. Does it calm your thoughts? Does it keep your hands busy in a good way? Do you enjoy watching something come to life that used to just be a blank canvas? If so, you’re likely on the right track.
Creating Calm Through Color
Choosing your first paint by number kit isn’t about picking the perfect picture or showing off your skills. It’s about giving yourself a chance to try something new without a lot of pressure. Start with a design that feels friendly, not too hard, and fun to look at.
Painting might seem small, but it can be a powerful way to find calm time for yourself. The more you feel good during the process, the more likely you’ll be to keep coming back to it. A few brush strokes can go a long way toward helping your day feel better.
Starting your creative journey can feel overwhelming, but we have plenty of simple designs to make your first experience smooth and fun. At Ledgebay, our kits take the guesswork out of painting and let calm shine through. Whether you're into landscapes, animals, or something more abstract, you'll find great options for painting for a beginner. Take a look and see what feels right, and know that we're here to help should you need guidance choosing a kit or understanding what comes with it.
