The Top 6 Most Soothing Paint by Numbers to Try. After the recent hard times that struck the whole world because of COVID-19, stress has been lurking in our lives more than ever. Folks who already had fast-paced lifestyles are in extreme need of something to vent their fears and doubts into. If this applies to you, I can guarantee that painting will be your trusty savior.
I know what you’re probably thinking. How can you grab the brush and paint if you don’t have any previous experience? Well, that’s where paint by numbers kits come in handy. All you need is the basic skill of coloring inside lines. You’ll be painting masterpieces before you know it!
Today, I’ll review the best paint by numbers, soothing kits that can relieve stress. Let’s see!
Summer Wine – Judy Buswell – Paint By Numbers Soothing
I couldn’t think of an artist to start my soothing list better than the magnificent Judy Buswell. If you aren’t familiar with Judy you can read her FULL BIO Here.
The majority of Buswell’s artwork features flowers or gardens – a universally appealing theme that accounts in part for her vast and growing popularity.
But there is more to it than that, and for many people, the appeal is hard to put into words; they just know that they love her art. For some it is the vividness of her colors; for others, it’s the familiarity or nostalgia the images evoke, and the sense that the images come straight from the heart.
Specs
Size: 16” x 20” Framed
Colors: acrylic
Material: high-quality linen canvas with or without the frame
Monet practiced art between 1855 and 1926. In that period, the school of realism was still in control. In the first years, Monet followed that direction to establish himself as a commercially successful artist.
It wasn’t until 1880 that he started painting what he believed was beautiful. Most of his works focused on the overall feel of landscapes rather than the actual intricate details. Later, his efforts were considered as essential contributions in the school of impressionism.
As the name implies, this piece captures the mesmerizing view of the Seine river as seen from Lavacourt, a village close to where Monet was born.
In 1879, a year before this piece was painted, France was suffering from an exceptionally cold winter. In the following spring, the ice began to slowly thaw, which produced a cool mist that kept lurking in the sky for almost the whole day. Monet brilliantly captured this by the dispersed pink and white strokes.
The village faintly shows on the background with bright shadows, which further intensifies the mist effect.
With a clever remark, Monet placed the weak sun in the middle of the composition. This intensifies the urgent need for its warmth after the previously harsh weather.
Specs
Size: 16” x 20”
Colors: acrylic
Material: finely woven linen canvas.
Frame: DIY frame, pre-stretched canvas, or no frame
Back again to Van Gogh, this time with a stunning seascape. He painted this piece in 1888, 2 years before his death.
Vincent was on a trip he took to Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a city in Southern France. There, Vincent had some relaxing moments that eased his depression to some extent.
Between all the natural sceneries, Van Gogh specifically adored the Mediterranean Sea. “[It] has a color like a Mackerel,” said Vincent in one of his letters. “You don’t always know if it’s green or purple, you don’t always know if it’s blue, because a second later, its changing reflection has taken on a pink or grey hue.”
To depict this unique nature, Van Gogh decided to ditch the paintbrush. He used a palette knife to let the smudges of unmixed paint form an amazing impasto. I always love this approach because the thick paint adds actual shadows in the rather flat canvas.
Sadly, the paint by numbers kit doesn’t have the same intricate details of the original piece. Still, the enhanced color saturation makes up for this fact by popping out the whitish spots dispersed into the sea.
Specs
Size: 16” x 20”
Colors: acrylic
Material: Frameless high-quality canvas
Almond Blossom – Vincent van Gogh – Paint By Numbers Soothing
Blossoming branches were highly favored by Van Gogh. Here, he captured the characteristic white and yellow flowers of an almond tree. I like how he chose the light turquoise as a background that pops out the flowers instead of overwhelming them.
Despite being fairly simple, this is among my most favorite works by Van Gogh. In an absolutely sweet remark, Vincent painted this as a gift for Theo, his brother who had just had a baby boy. Why almond, you might ask? Well, Vincent chose it because it’s among the first trees to flower in the early spring. They’re considered as a stark symbol of new life.
In an even sweeter note, Theo decided to name his son after his brother. “I’m making the wish that he may be as determined and as courageous as you,” said Theo in a letter to Vincent.
Interestingly, this kind masterpiece had always been the favorite to Van Gogh’s family. Vincent Willem, Theo’s son, was the main person behind the establishment of Van Gogh Museum. If it weren’t for his extensive efforts, we would’ve never seen the full collection of Vincent’s masterpieces.
Specs
Size: 16” x 20”
Colors: acrylic
Material: finely woven linen canvas
Frame: DIY frame, pre-stretched canvas, or no frame
Mona Lisa – Leonardo Da Vinci – Paint By Numbers Soothing
Yep, you read that write. Thanks to the ingenious technique of paint by numbers kits, you can recreate the worldwide-famous masterpiece, Mona Lisa.
I absolutely like how this particular kit preserves so many details. You can even see the small wrinkles in the dress. This will make the final piece look like it was painted by the brilliant brushstrokes of a savvy artist.
The Mona Lisa is believed to be Lisa Gherardini, the wife of Francesco Giocondo, a silk and cloth merchant. Since this piece was added to the Louvre, it has amazed millions of people with its captivating gaze and mysterious smile.
In the background, Da Vinci opted for an imaginary landscape that lacks definitive lines or borders. This resulted in a piece in which the main character pops out without being overwhelmed by the surroundings.
All over the world, the Mona Lisa’s expression is considered to be the purest symbol of happiness. Fun fact: this masterpiece was originally named “La Gioconda”, which is Italian for “the jocund one”. It was also a clever pun on the husband’s last name, Giocondo.
Did you know that Claude Monet had extensive knowledge of agriculture besides painting? In his house in Giverny, he grew dozens of flowers and trees that captures the interest of hundreds of tourists until today.
This particular flower bed was Monet’s favorite. He grew lots of irises right below his bedroom window to enjoy their beautiful blue and violet tones the first thing in the morning. His close friends interestingly reported that he had planned for this arrangement for years to mimic a similar garden that was grown in his aunt’s house.
Over the top, the weeping willow trees are dangling their leaves to closely watch over the irises. Monet was keen on regularly trimming their leaves to give his flowers a healthy sun exposure at all times. It’s a tiny detail, but you can actually see the tone shifting from yellow to dark blue at the lower third of this piece.
Specs
Size: 16” x 20”
Colors: acrylic
Material: Frameless high-quality canvas
The Verdict – Paint By Numbers Soothing
The best paint by numbers, therapy kits can be highly variable between people. Yet, I tried to pick the most beautiful pieces that received endless positive feedback throughout the years.
The Cafe Terrace at Night by Van Gogh effortlessly came as my top pick. Its amazing contrast between yellow and blue gives hints of warmth and relaxation.
In the second place, I picked Sunset on the Seine at Lavacourt by Monet. He skillfully depicted the sunset in a mesmerizing misty landscape.
Did you like this list? Don’t let it stop at you. Share it with your friends who might be experiencing stressful times.
The 7 Most Popular Monet Masterpieces as Paint by Numbers Kits. Claude Monet was one of the most important contributors to the Impressionist movement. His magnificent talent allowed him to manipulate the lights, shadows, and colors to depict landscapes in a mesmerizing, soothing fashion.
Today, you’ll get the chance to live glimpses of his life. You’ll pick your brush and lay the same strokes he had laid in the 19th century. But don’t worry, you won’t need to be crazily-talented like him. I’ll review the 7 most beautiful paint by numbers, Monet kits. Let’s see!
By the end of 1890, Monet was becoming more and more successful as an artist. His art dealer was able to secure amazing sales that brought him enough money to buy his house in Giverny.
Monet was already dazzled by the environment at this time. That’s why he decided to build an elaborate garden that was later appraised for being among the most beautiful gardens in the world. As you’ll see later in this article, many of Monet’s masterpieces were directly inspired by scenes from this garden.
In this piece, Monet painted the main path that led to the door of his house. At first, this path was flanked by jungly spruce and cypress trees with a bunch of flowers dispersed here and there.
Although his wife disagreed, Monet thinned the trees to allow more sun rays to reach his flowers. He also enriched the color variety by adding dense beds of nasturtiums, fuchsia, and dahlias. The violet and blue irises capture most of the attention through their stark contrast with the yellowish highlights on the ground.
In another iteration, Monet painted the same scene, but with a straighter angle that showed more of his home. I prefer the original version for its enchanting vibrant colors, though.
In his garden in Giverny, Monet created a small pond by damming a marshy stream that originated from the river Epte. The presence of that abundant freshwater was a crucial factor in establishing the unique scene of plantations that we saw in the previous piece.
Over the newly-formed pond, Monet built an exquisite Japanese-style bridge. He picked that shape because he was strongly influenced by many forms of Japanese art that were gaining more attention at that time.
Fun fact: the Japanese bridge wasn’t the only attribute that Japan left in Monet’s life. Many critics believe that the linearity and stylizations of the Japanese prints directly influenced the way Monet approached landscapes. The various Japanese pieces that were later found in his personal collection proves this concept to a great extent.
In this piece, the light-green bridge fits well with the background trees, especially the weeping willows. The pond is filled with green, blue, and white water lilies. In his later life, Monet nearly obliterated that pond with dozens of different vegetation’s. It sure was a stunning experience to stand atop this enormous, floating green area.
If this is your first time trying a paint by numbers kit, I’d recommend opting for a different piece. The monochrome arrangement in this one might feel a bit intimidating for novices.
In 1867, Monet was spending the summer in a resort in Sainte-Adresse, a French town near Le Havre that had a stunning view on the English Channel.
Unlike his later work, Monet painted this piece with a traditional, smooth rendering. His love for colorful flowers was already evident, but you can see that he was keen on depicting the smallest details.
If you like painting people and landscapes, this piece should be your favorite between all of Monet’s works. He managed to capture how fashionable the French bourgeoisie used to dress, and how they managed to spend their leisure time. It’s somewhat rare to find similar subjects in the following years of Monet’s career.
I absolutely like the distant steamships on the horizon. In the original piece, Monet was able to correctly capture the coal smoke emitted by those gigantic vessels in the background. However, this distinction gets quite faint in the paint by numbers kit. Then again, we can’t really expect better quality for such small details.
Specs
Size: 15” x 20”
Color: acrylic
Material: high-quality linen canvas, with or without the frame
Before completely devoting his talent to landscapes, Monet wanted to showcase his ability to draw figures one last time. And in case you’re not familiar, that “woman” holding the parasol is actually Camille Doncieux, Monet’s first wife. The little kid standing in the back is Jeon, their first son.
In this piece, Monet didn’t want to capture the facial likeness. Instead, he wanted to apply his impressionist style to convey the general feeling of a normal family outing.
Contrary to the majority of his work, Monet used a low viewpoint. By looking up to his family, Monet represented his wife as an iconic figure to reveal her crucial emotional status in his heart. The small figure of Jeon balances the overall composition without overwhelming the main character.
I love how Monet avoided the regular outline of portraits that was fairly common back then. He used the pose and placement to show that his family was just enjoying their time when he stopped them for a quick painting. I also like how he managed to imply a windy atmosphere through the shape of the large white skirt.
Back again to Monet’s Giverny garden. This time, we zoom in to one of his most favorite flower beds. This wide collection of irises was placed right below the artist’s bedroom window because he wanted this to be his first view in the morning.
Fun fact: according to Monet’s close friends, this flowerbed is strikingly similar to the one his aunt had in her home in Sainte-Adresse. Records reported that Monet did tons of research to exactly mimic what he had in memory. This way, he was always able to remember his joyful teenage years.
Monet’s ability to plan the flowering schedule of his plantations was phenomenal. He always had a coherent view to inspire him, regardless of the month. It’s absolutely fascinating to see such a brilliant artist excelling in another field that required a handful of hard work.
By 1882, Monet wasn’t living the best time of his life. His first wife, Camile, died 3 years earlier. And France’s economic recession was starting to impact his sales. That’s why he decided to take a break and visit the vast countryside of Normandy.
Before that, he met Alice Hoschedé, whom he married afterward in 1892. He used to exchange letters with her. When he arrived at Normandy, he invited her alongside her daughters to enjoy “all its delightful nooks and crannies.”
In this piece, he painted two of Alice’s daughters as they were peacefully strolling over Normandy’s beach. I like how he painted the figures with the same painterly approach used for the landscape without affecting the precision.
Despite being fairly simple, this is probably the most famous piece by Monet; it’s actually my personal favorite!
This piece was painted in the port of Le Havre. That day seemed to have a heavy mist that diminished the shiny sun into a dim orange circle.
The vibrant yellow and orange hues contrast stunningly with the little boats in the foreground. The separate dark brushstrokes convey the sense of waves propelling the sailors forward, which adds a nice dynamic sense to the overall stillness.
Specs
Size: 16” x 20”
Colors: acrylic
Material: finely woven linen canvas.
Frame: DIY frame, pre-stretched canvas, or no frame
The Verdict – Paint By Numbers Monet
Between all the paint by numbers, Monet’s kits, the Woman With a Parasol is my favorite. I like how he painted his wife as a central figure to convey her utmost importance in his life.
Have you been practicing painting for a while? If so, you’ve got to try Irises in Monet’s Garden. The dense violet and blue irises would keep you busy for hours on end.
Beginners, on the other hand, can cherish the Garden at Sainte Adresse without being overwhelmed. The excellent depiction of the bourgeois adds a nice contrast to the wide view of the English Channel.
Liked this list? Stay tuned for more! I’ll write more articles to feature the best paint by numbers kits featuring famous painters.
If details are important in normal-sized paintings, they’re even more vital in detailed artwork. A dedicated miniature paint by number brush will give you more control and precision, leading to impressive results. Read on for our reviews of three miniature brush sets that all have paint by number brush types from Ledgebay. A company known for its wide range of reliable professional-quality paint brushes. We also compiled an in-depth look at paint by numbers brush types.
Ledgebay Miniature Paint Brush Reviews
We reviewed three Ledgebay sets that come with 7, 12, and 15 brushes.
If you’re new to paint-by-numbers kits and unsure whether you’re going to keep up the hobby, you can’t go wrong with this seven-brush kit. The brushes are sturdy and can stand up to a lot of cleaning.
The set contains seven miniature brushes to cover all your precision painting needs: Two liners in sizes 4/0 and 1, two rounds in sizes 4/0 & 1, one flat in size 1, and two spots in sizes 0 and 1. Different tip shapes ensure you always have the right brush for your artwork.
Use them for paint-by-numbers kits, fine makeup detailing on your cosplay, or even traditional Japanese calligraphy. Store them in the complementary soft drawstring bag or the reusable plastic tube, or use both for extra protection.
They also come with a guide to brush care and a microfiber towel so you don’t have to keep using paper towels. The package also includes a touching personal note from Ledgebay about the company’s history and drive.
For professional-level painting across many mediums like watercolor, oil, and gouache, as well as various types of hobby and gamer model painting, this 12-brush set provides an excellent range of versatility in detailed artwork.
This set comes with 12 miniature brushes: Four liners in sizes 4/0, 3/0, 1, and 0, four rounds in sizes 4/0, 3/0, 1, and 0, two flats in sizes 1 and 0, and two spot brushes in sizes 0 and 1.
These brushes also come with excellent balance, so you can say goodbye to hand pain no matter how tiny your art project is. The handles are specifically designed for extra control and comfort.
The bristles are made of nylon Taklon, which can stand up to a lot of abuse by harsh paint solvents and chemicals. They’re also extremely soft, which guarantees a smooth application of paint.
The Taklon bristles are also highly flexible without losing their shape or shedding. Even better, they’re super-easy to clean and can be reshaped by hand right after rinsing with water.
Pros
Nylon Taklon bristles are eco-friendly
Ideal for acrylics, watercolors, and oil
Comes with two containers that are easy to store and travel with
Whatever your preferred medium is, you can cover all your bases with this set. Its versatile range of paint by number brush types is guaranteed to get any job done, while the fine tips are excellent for micro details in watercolors, oil, acrylics, enamel, and hobby paints.
The set contains 15 brushes: Five liners in sizes 4/0, 3/0, 2/0, 0, and 1, five rounds in sizes 4/0, 3/0, 2/0, 0, and 1, three flats in sizes 2/0, 0, and 1, and two spot brushes in sizes 0 and 1.
Each brush comes with a hand-crafted handle of stunning birchwood protected with a seven-layer lacquer coating for a professional look. Moreover, the handles are ideally weighted and balanced in an ergonomic design for optimal comfort, control, and precision.
Triangular handle shape allows easier angling for more precision
Excellent for D&D, Warhammer 40K, and other gaming miniatures
Eco-friendly reusable plastic container
Cons
Some brushes may fail to form a point
Brush Materials
The bristles are the single most important part of your brush. They’re responsible for picking up enough paint and spreading it smoothly, and they’re a major factor in a brush’s price.
Natural
These bristles are made of animal hair, which is a by-product of the food and textile industries. The microscopic scales on each hair make it better-equipped to pick up paint and hang on to it, but make it a little more difficult to clean.
A natural-hair brush’s performance and price depend on the animal the bristles came from. Here are the most common animal hairs used:
Sable
Squirrel
Hog
Camel
Goat
Pony
The shorter the hairs, the easier and more available the brush. Longer hairs usually come on more expensive brushes. A brush can come with purely natural hair or hair that has been blended with other natural or synthetic hairs for varying degrees of performance and price.
Natural-hair brushes are ideal for oil-based paints and watercolors. They should be avoided when using acrylics for two reasons:
They’re easily damaged by the caustic nature of acrylics.
Painting with acrylics means you have to keep your brush immersed in water, which can ruin natural fibers very quickly.
Synthetic Brush Type
These are man-made bristles that are made of various materials, such as nylon, polyester, or a combination of both. They can be treated and shaped in different ways to improve their ability to carry and disperse color.
A common polyester filament is Taklon, which is usually dyed and baked to be softer and absorbent than average synthetic brushes.
Unlike natural hairs, synthetic bristles come with a number of advantages:
Synthetic hairs are less vulnerable to damage by solvents and chemicals in paints.
Because they lack the scale structure in animal hairs, they’re much easier to clean.
They’re remarkably more durable than natural hairs.
Brush Shapes For Paint By Number
Paint brushes come in a variety of shapes, all of which can be used with any medium you like. Here are the most common ones.
Liners
Also known as a script or rigger brush, the liner brush is pointed, narrow, and long. It can create controlled lines and can carry a considerable amount of paint, despite its thin shape.
Rounds
The round brush is the most versatile brush shape hands down. It can create detailed strokes and thicker marks and has a large color-carrying capacity.
Flats
Flat brushes come with long, rectangular bristles. Their flat shape gives you flat strokes and can help you define edges and create precise lines. They’re easy to maneuver and can carry a lot of paint.
Spots
Also known as a spotter brush, a spot brush is a round brush with the hair clamped where it’s fullest. This gives the brush much shorter hair than other round brushes, which means less flexibility and much better control over the painting process.
What Makes a Good Paint by Number Brush Type
Here are the main features you want in a reliable paint-by-numbers brush.
Precision
Whether you’re a paint-by-numbers fan or you enjoy painting miniature D&D figurines, you need a brush that can handle serious detail work. Straying out of the lines can mess up your hard work on the painting.
Firm bristles make the brush similar to a pen in its precision and ability to get the tiniest details right, so you’re in full control of your painting experience.
Ergonomics
Not all handle shapes are equally easy to hold. If you’re going to get sucked into a paint-by-numbers marathon, you need a handle designed for comfortable use. You don’t want to be forced to stop making beautiful art because your hands hurt.
A good triangular design will provide your hands with comfort. In addition, an ideal brush with an ergonomic handle will also be non-slip, so it doesn’t keep slipping or rotating in your grip and making precise detail work impossible.
Bristles
Whether your brush has natural or synthetic bristles, they need to be even. If a few bristles are longer than the rest, they can mess up your linework. With quality brushes, you can unpack your set and delve right into your artwork, rather than wasting time trimming uneven bristles.
You also want bristles that are just flexible enough to get those tricky corners and nooks without bending back and losing their shape. If the bristles don’t form a point, you won’t be able to do any tiny details or fine work up close.
Your bristles must also be able to maintain their shape after cleaning. Sturdy bristles will be able to stand up to many rinses and can be shaped easily with your fingers immediately after.
Brush Set vs. Individual Brushes
When it comes from a reputable company, a paint-brush set gives you more value for your money. Brush sets typically start from 7-brush sets all the way to 15-brush sets. This provides you with a range of different sizes and shapes for a more versatile experience.
A brush set might cost more at the onset, but it will be much cheaper down the line than buying quality individual brushes. That way, any money you save can go to your other art supplies as well as having many paint by number brush types to choose from when trying to get hit those small spaces.
Conclusion – Paint By Number Brush Types
Whether you pick a set with 15 brushes or seven brushes, no spot is too tiny or tricky for a Ledgebay brush to reach. With an ergonomic handle that’s also beautiful to look at, you won’t need to worry about hand cramps ever again with these paint by number brush types.
The high-quality nylon Taklon bristles make cleaning and reshaping your brushes a breeze. While the professional-grade materials ensure that these brushes will be part of your artistic journey for a long time to come.
Shop The Ledgebay Fine Tip Brush Sets – CLICK HERE
You’ve been working for days on end, and now, you’ve finally completed your most recent masterpiece. Yet, once the paint dried, you started noticing some areas turning patchy and dull. What to do? Any artist will tell you there’s only one way to balance out the colors of your artwork: varnish. This protective layer levels out the texture of the canvas. It also makes the colors appear more vibrant. Keep reading to find out more about the best varnish for acrylic paintings.
The Top 6 Varnishes for Acrylic Paintings
Here are our top 6 choices for best varnish for acrylic paintings.
Krylon is a reliable name in the world of art, and this gloss spray varnish is no exception. It’s UV-resistant for optimal protection against yellowing and fading.
It delivers a quick-drying, permanent protective layer to your artwork. Your painting will be in good hands with this smudge-proof, moisture-resistant gloss varnish spray.
This gloss varnish works great on all types of surfaces, such as plaster, paper, ceramics, and more. It comes in an 11-ounce aerosol spray can.
This 16-ounce liquid acrylic varnish offers a safe, non-toxic finish for your artwork. It’s also acid-free and AP-certified.
You can use it on your painting once it has dried. It can also be mixed with acrylic paint for an even smoother finish.
If you wish to dilute it, you can easily mix it with water. Then, when you’re done, you can easily wash it off your brush using soap and water.
Once it dries, the Sargent Art gloss varnish provides a permanent protective layer. It’s waterproof and smudge-proof. So your paintwork would be safe no matter what comes their way.
Pros
Non-toxic
AP-certified
Can be diluted with water
Waterproof
Great value for the price
Cons
May become opaque, rather than clear, once it dries
If you’re looking to give your acrylic paintings a protective layer you can rely on, this varnish spray should be your top pick. It’s completely lead and CFC-free, so you can use it anywhere without worrying about toxic fumes.
The Montana Cans matte varnish provides a beautiful professional finish to your artwork. Since it’s drip-free, it won’t cause any unwanted drips on your artwork as you’re spraying.
This 10-ounce spray is made weatherproof to protect your painting against moisture and yellowing. It’s an easy way to give your art a matte professional finish to last for years to come.
Using a matte varnish can be tricky, but not with the Liquitex BASICS. You can mix it with some gloss varnish for an even more layered sheen finish.
One of its best features is its clear, non-yellowing finish. This permanent varnish works to add the perfect amount of texture and depth to your artwork.
This matte liquid varnish is ACMI-certified to ensure a high level of safety standard. This 8-ounce bottle offers great protection against dust build-up and UV-damage.
The Golden Archival varnish is one of the best removable varnishes on the market. It’s a good option to have if you wish to do any retouches to your painting in the future.
Made with 100% solvent-based resin, this varnish is fast-drying. When it dries, it offers an even film that protects your artwork from dust, scratches, and fading. It’s great at resisting moisture and UV rays.
A great feature of this 10-ounce satin varnish is that it has a fan spray tip. You can easily adjust it to precisely spray where you want it. This feature also reduces the risks of overspray.
Pros
Removable
UV-resistant
Moisture-resistant
Comes with a fan spray tip
Cost-effective
Cons
Must use in a well-ventilated area because of its strong smell
The Winsor & Newton satin varnish gives the perfect final touch to your artwork. This is one of the best varnish for acrylic paintings we could find.
It can work by itself for a smooth finish. But you can also mix it with other types of varnishes to give your painting a layered texture. If you usually dilute your paint with water, why not try the same with Winsor & Newton varnish? This will result in a more flowing consistency without altering the colors.
This 4-ounce liquid varnish adds a durable, protective layer to protect your painting from dust, fading, and UV damage.
Pros
UV-resistant
Dries to a satiny, smooth finish
UV-resistant
Offers better consistency when mixed with paints
Cons
Some users complained from its grainy texture
Price is relatively high
Types of Acrylic Varnishes
Varnish comes in many types. You have to choose the one that best fits your paintings.
If you decide to use removable varnish, make sure you apply an isolation coat beforehand. This way, your painting will be protected from the chemicals that will strip away the varnish.
Resin vs. Polymer
Both resin and polymer can effectively protect your artworks from scratches and weathering effects.
However, their application can be quite different. Here’s a quick comparison:
Acrylic Resin Varnish
Acrylic resin varnishes give a clear, glossy finish to your paintwork. So if a high-gloss finish is what you’re after, this is the one to go with.
To dilute it and clean your brushes, you need mineral spirits. Using water won’t work with this type of varnish.
The only problem with resin varnish is that it can be hazardous to your health if inhaled. So make sure you’re in a spacious, well-ventilated area.
Acrylic Polymer Varnish
Polymer varnish, on the other hand, isn’t toxic. So you can safely use it anywhere. It’s made up of synthetic materials, which make it smoother and easier to apply.
It can be thinned using plain water. Your brushes can also be cleaned off with water and soap.
Glossy, Matte, or Satin?
Both resin and polymer varnishes are available in three categories. You can choose from glossy, matte, or satin depending on what kind of finish you want for your painting.
If you want to take things up a notch, you can mix them together. Some artists layer them to alter their effects and give their painting a different aspect.
Glossy
Glossy varnish brings out the colors in your painting and makes them pop more. Yet, it makes the painting have a mild shiny reflection.
This will be especially noticeable when you take a photo of the painting, or when the light hits it at certain angles.
Matte
Matte varnish gives less glare and reflection. It works to make darker colors appear somewhat lighter. This varnish gives paintings a flat finish compared with the other types.
Satin
Satin varnish also reduces the glare of a painting. It gives an effect that’s somewhere in between glossy and matte finishes.
Tips for a Perfect Varnish Finish
Keep reading for some tips on how to get a perfectly varnished painting.
Application
Whether you choose a spray or liquid varnish, keep an eye out for places you might have missed. You may even need a second coat to make sure you’ve covered the artwork completely.
If you’re using spray varnish, shake vigorously to mix the chemicals inside. And remember to clean the nozzle regularly. This prevents foam particles from spewing out and clinging to the surface of your painting.
Timing
The best time to apply varnish would be a day or two after you’ve finished painting. This gives time for the paint to dry completely.
This is the time when you can add an optional isolation layer, too. If you do apply this layer, you should wait for another couple of days to allow it to dry before applying varnish.
Tools
The best type of brush to apply the varnish would be a relatively wide, flat painting brush. It’s even better if it has split-end bristles since this wouldn’t leave brush strokes over the final piece.
You’ll also need a glass jar or any type of clean container to put the varnish in. It needs to be completely clean, rinsed, and dried before you add any varnish to it.
Summarizing Pros and Cons
Using varnish on your acrylic painting can bring out many of its best qualities. Yet it all comes down to your personal preference as an artist.
Here are several benefits and drawbacks of adding a layer of varnish to your paintwork.
Pros
Intensifies the colors
Balances out uneven areas
Makes surface look consistent
Acts as a sealant to close up the porous paint surfaces
Prevents dirt and debris from collecting on the surface of the painting
Protects against the yellowing or fading
Cons
Can be challenging to apply correctly
May affect the artwork negatively, rather than boosting its integrity
Takes a great deal of time
A Final Note
Every form of artwork deserves to be well preserved, especially if it’s done in acrylic paint. That’s why finding the best varnish for acrylic paintings is so important.
While the six varnishes we chose are the best on the market, our favorite is the Krylon K01305 Gloss Spray Varnish. It’s a trustworthy brand you can rely on for optimal protection.
Your acrylic painting will look great after adding the Krylon spray varnish. That layer of shiny protection will enhance the colors of your painting and make them look more dynamic.
Painting by numbers has been gaining huge market attention recently, and it’s easy to see why. It serves as an opportunity for people who can’t paint, enabling them to make beautiful pieces of art. Not to mention that it’s a fun activity that brings peace of mind. We will focus on my paint by numbers reviews and take a look at the good (if any) and the bad.
There’s been a lot of claims about My Paint By Numbers, which is a popular company that specializes in these kits. Between satisfied users and buyers who have had unfortunate experiences, we’ll shed some light on common complaints from customers. We will also recommend a quality supplier for Paint By Number Kits that is known for Legendary customer service.
5 Common Complaints Listed In My Paint By Numbers Reviews
Take a look at what customers had to say about My Paint By Numbers. That way, you’ll know what you’re in for once you decide to buy a product of theirs.
‘My Kit Didn’t Get Shipped’
This is the most common complaint among buyers in my paint by numbers reviews. Nearly all of those who ordered kits in April didn’t receive their orders yet. Although some of these orders were shipped in August, some customers were unsatisfied with the company’s way of dealing with the problem.
For one, the customer service didn’t provide a solid reply as to when the orders will arrive. On top of that, some users couldn’t get their shipment tracking numbers. They reported that customer service employees just refused to disclose them. Let’s take a look at some of the actual my paint by numbers reviews.
‘My Custom-Made Order Arrived Wrong’
Giving someone you care about a photo of them you painted is a warm gesture. A lot of buyers order custom painting kits as a gift for their loved ones. However, some of them reported that the orders arrived wrong.
Surely, no one wants to order a custom-made painting and open the shipment to find a painting of an owl! So, think twice before ordering a tailored painting from My Paint By Numbers.
‘The Delivery Estimates Are Inaccurate’
The manufacturer’s website claims that kits in the US take four days to ship. However, this estimate was proved wrong when users waited for their orders for over two weeks. Although some customers received theirs in a week, the 4-days claim still proved to be a scam.
Not to mention that kits from outside the US sometimes take months to arrive. So, if you’ll place an order from My Paint By Numbers, be prepared to wait for a long time.
‘I Can’t Communicate With the Customer Service’
All buyers who had an issue with the shipment or the order weren’t able to communicate with the company. The only available communication means are an email address and a phone number.
Users reported that no one replies to the phone number. And as for the email, they all got the same automated reply, which still didn’t solve their problem.
‘I Couldn’t See the Printed Numbers’
A lot of users complained that the printed numbers on the canvas aren’t visible enough, which made it hard to paint. This can be especially hard for beginners to deal with because it’ll mess with the color arrangement. Also, the customer service wasn’t of much help when buyers requested a refund.
How About an Alternative?
Painting by numbers is a relaxing, fun activity. There are alternatives to My Paint By Numbers that’ll enable you to enjoy this art without suffering from the aforementioned complaints. Let’s see how Ledgebay managed to make a name for themselves in the field.
About Ledgebay
Ledgebay was founded to inspire more people to use art in their daily lives. Ledgebay believes that the lack of talent doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy the relaxing sensation and the fun of painting. So, they dedicate their products to everyone who needs a mental break from daily struggles.
They specialize in paint by number kits and accessories needed to create a masterpiece. You’ll find a wide variety of kits on their website that’ll allow you to express your inner artist.
7 Ledgebay Paint by Number Kits That You’ll Love
If you want to consider the overall quality of Ledgebay’s products, take a look at these options. We handpicked them in a wide variety to fit different preferences. They’re also available at affordable prices to match all budgets.
If you’re a landscape enthusiast, you’ll love this one. It’s a mesmerizing painting of a lakeside boat, bathing in the subtle light of the moon. The canvas has relaxing colors that’ll steal focus from everything else.
If you’re a painting beginner, you don’t have to worry about the process. This painting has no color mixing or blending; nothing will get messy. Plus, if you want to change the colors or add some effects, you’re free to do so, and the numbering will help you get a pleasant result.
The kit comes with three paintbrushes in varying sizes, thereby giving you more control of delicate details and small areas. The brushes are made of high-quality, durable nylon that’s easy to clean. Additionally, you get a set of numbered acrylic paints that match the numbers printed on the canvas.
Vacation In the U.S.A
If you want a piece of Miami on your wall, you should consider this painting kit. It features a lot of vivid colors mixing together to come out with a photographic view of a seaside road. Besides, it’s suitable for beginners because it doesn’t have too many small details.
You can carry this kit anywhere, thanks to the handle on the box. On top of that, the shipment includes an easel that’ll perfectly fit the 16-by-20-inch canvas. It also comes with the usual acrylic color set and paintbrushes that accompany every Ledgebay canvas.
The October kit is ideal for flower lovers. It features four colorful vases that are packed with fall flowers. The colors will look brilliant on any wall; its vibrant hues will certainly catch people’s eyes.
This 16-by-20-inch kit is suitable for beginners and experts alike. It’s simple, yet captivating. Not to mention that it comes with four paintbrushes, so you can choose the one you’re most comfortable with. You’ll get the mounting supplies and the acrylic paints as well, and you’ll receive a color reference for the painting to make your mission easier.
The Rails West canvas features a perspective view of a coal train that’s riding alongside a water stream. The painting is fixated on the stream and the lush trees scattered around the forest. You can nearly hear the soft squeal of the steam as it escapes the train’s chimney; that’s how alluring the painting is!
It’s recommended for experienced painters because it contains a lot of delicate details. Despite that, its numbering will make it easier for you to follow the color arrangement.
The canvas measures 16 by 20 inches. You can hang it on a wall after you’re done with it; it’ll go perfectly well with blue, beige, and apple green walls. Additionally, it comes with a color reference that measures 4 by 5 inches. This will make it easier for you to visualize the end result.
To prevent your canvas from arriving folded, Ledgebay ship their kits rolled. Also, you’ll receive a full set of numbered acrylic colors with the package. Additionally, this kit comes with four paintbrushes in different sizes and mounting supplies that you can use for wall art.
Scenic Overlook is one of Ledgebay’s most popular painting kits, and it’s easy to see why. The canvas is a masterpiece; it features a small family overlooking a huge forest that’s dipping down a hill. The colorful cars on the right are the only thing that stands out among the sea of deep green on the painting.
The painting contains a lot of intricate details, but users mentioned that it wasn’t difficult to paint. However, some users had to buy an extra tiny brush because the accompanying brushes weren’t small enough. Plus, they said the brushes aren’t of the best quality, but maintaining them and cleaning them regularly will make sure they last.
The high-quality colors that come with the kit adapt smoothly on the canvas. They’ll glide easily on the painting surface without messing up.
If you want to bring the country fair to your room, you can opt for this canvas. It includes vibrant colors that’ll look attractive on any wall. In addition to that, the substantial difference between hues will make it easier for you to pick the colors you need among the many options.
The kit arrives in a high-quality box that’s topped off by a handle for easier carrying. Furthermore, it comes with an easel, four paintbrushes, and a set of numbered acrylic colors. The quality arrives as promised, and the canvas comes rolled to avoid fold markings.
Final Thoughts
Paint By Numbers are a great way to relax and spend your “ME” time. Don’t let My Paint By Numbers reviews discourage you. As long as there’s a worthy alternative, go for it.
Ledgebay paintings are worth the time you’ll spend on them. You’ll receive them with the quality you’re expecting, and you’ll love how they’ll come out in the end. Ledgebay is known for LEGENDARY customer service as well. Take a look at the Ledgebay Designs –> HERE.
Many adults have found paint by number landscapes soothing for the nerves to the point of being therapeutic. After a long, busy week, it’s never a bad idea to collect your art supplies and work on a painting by the fireplace.
Still, when it comes to choosing paint by number landscapes, it might take you ages to make up your mind. For this reason, we’ve put together this article to recommend some of the best pictures you can paint.
The Best Paint By Number Landscapes to Revive Your Inner Artist
The following landscapes are all created by one of the most talented artists, Kim Norlien. Looking at these paintings, you’ll come to appreciate how he has the ability to capture Mother Nature in all its glory.
If you’re a fan of the color blue with touches of orange, you might find an instant liking to Aurora Bliss. This painting depicts a cozy-looking cottage surrounded by trees capped in snow with an almost-frozen lake in front of it.
To complete the perfection of this painting, there’s a small fire by the lake, radiating warmth that you can almost feel. Its orange and yellow flames balance out the rich blue that makes the most of the scene.
We’re pretty sure that you’ll have a fantastic time working on this calming piece.
What’s great about this kit is that it includes a wooden easel, a carrying handle, and a detailed instruction manual. All these items should help you bring your masterpiece to life after a few days of work.
Not to mention that it’s available in three different canvas sizes that you can pick from according to your preference. You can also choose between framed and unframed canvases.
Our second favorite landscape is Cabin Fever. Just like its predecessor, this picture captures the beauty of nature using vivid colors and the shifting of light and shadows.
This scene comes in shades of green and violet to draw your inner artist. Yet, the best thing about it is that anyone can enjoy painting this piece. It doesn’t matter if they’re professional artists or hobbyists.
Ultimately, we think this kit would make a perfect birthday or Christmas gift for your children. Even better, a family can gather around this canvas and have some quality time painting together.
Same as the previous product, this kit includes almost all the supplies you might need. Also, it comes in different sizes and frame options.
For fans of rocky cliffs, vibrant greenery, sea view, and the endless sky, we suggest that you go for the Guiding Light. This landscape painting combines all these elements plus many more.
Yet, the entire focus of this picture seems to go to the lighthouse, which radiates its guiding light in the direction of the horizon.
People who love paying attention to details should admire this scene. However, it might not be the easiest for a beginner because it includes many tiny spots that require a higher degree of accuracy.
In fact, the manufacturer placed this paint by numbers landscape in the medium to advanced range for that reason. Still, with an array of brushes of different sizes available, you should be able to color the smallest areas with ease.
Looking for a challenge? Guiding Light might be the best option for you.
Some people are fans of the night sky, while others prefer clear, cloudless mornings. However, this paint by numbers landscape is for those who enjoy the lovely colors of twilight.
This picture perfectly captures this time of the day and how it changes the elements of nature to shades of blue. The overall vibe is calming to the nerves and brings out feelings of silent wonder.
Again, this scene might be tricky for someone who’s just starting their paint by numbers journey. It includes frequently changing numbers and colors, which can be a bit tiring to follow for a first-timer.
However, according to several users, things should go more smoothly after a while of practice. Matter-of-factly, a lot of people who painted this picture commented on the high quality of the canvas, paint, and brushes.
Another great point that makes these paintings stand out even more is that the canvas comes rolled and not folded. This way, it can withstand distribution and shipping with no defects.
Here’s an easy landscape that all paint by numbers beginners will most likely appreciate. If you take a look at Mountain Paradise, you’ll notice that it doesn’t include small areas of paint unlike the previous two.
This picture shows a nice, little cottage on the outskirts of a forest with a snow-capped mountain in the backdrop. A few minutes before sunset, all the elements of this scene are overlaid with hues of yellow.
Lovers of the color green should have a fun time coloring all different shades of it. Also, we’re pretty sure that painting that background mountain as well as the sunset sky will make you feel proud of your artwork.
Another one of our favorites is Still Waters. This beautiful scene combines the colors green, violet, and pink, although you’ll find that green covers most of it.
It depicts a house with a surrounding porch on a lakeshore. Smoke rising out of its chimney, it gives off feelings of calm, security, and coziness. Not to mention that the greenery and the flowers add a natural vibrance to the painting.
Many people who painted this picture admired the end result. Yet, some commented on how it was hard to see the numbers and lines sometimes because the areas were so small.
Others suggested wearing magnifying glasses to see the numbers more clearly.
Still, if you have a steady hand, unwavering focus, and determined eyes, Still Waters might be your next masterpiece.
Set in the early morning light, The Road Home can be the perfect painting to start if you want to explore the country life. It contains elements such as a barn, ranch house, dirt road, and lots of green grass and trees.
All these combined draw a picture of warmth that’s often associated with coming home, which explains the name. Plus, the way that lights and shadows shift throughout the scenery completes the perfection of the artwork.
As for its difficulty level, most people concluded that it was medium to advanced due to constantly shifting colors. You’d need a stable hand to make sure you don’t mix different hues together.
Regardless, we think that this picture will be very calming to work on. Eventually, you should have an award-worthy Paint By Number Landscapes to hang in your living room.
5 Paint By Numbers Tips to Help You Create Beautiful Masterpieces
Everyone says that paint by numbers is effortless. Yet, you might need a few tips to reduce the chances of making mistakes. Especially as a beginner, doing the following can make your experience much easier.
Prepare Your Workspace
The first thing that you can do to reduce the chances of mistakes is to create a proper setting. A lot of things can happen if you paint in a messy place, like spilling paint or water on your canvas.
Therefore, you need to make sure that the table you’re working on is clean and ready for you to paint on.
Eliminate Distractions
Watching the TV or talking over the phone while painting can cause several missteps. You can mix colors with different numbers before realizing it’s too late.
To ensure that you produce a painting that’s similar to the reference image, try not to paint with any distractions nearby.
Yet, what if you accidentally fill a number with the wrong color? Luckily, you can fix that without breaking a sweat.
All you’ll have to do is wait for the paint to dry, then apply a layer of the right color on top of it. If you can still see the old paint through the new one, you can add another layer of the second color.
Start From the Top
You’re all set and ready to begin painting one of your new paint by number landscapes, but where should you begin? Many artists advise that you start from the top right corner if you’re a leftie. If you’re right-handed, you should commence from the top left corner.
It’s also a good idea to start with the background. This way, the rest of the painting will be outlined first, which should give you a clearer view of all the remaining elements.
Don’t Oversaturate Your Canvas
Using too much paint on a section of your canvas can leave you with smudges. This is because the canvas becomes unable to absorb all the paint, so the color remains wet on its surface.
Since the paint doesn’t dry out, it can easily be smudged across the canvas by your finger or hand.
Clean Your Brush Properly Before Dipping It in a New Color
Forgetting to do that will result in you developing a third hue. In this case, if you use this new color on a section of your canvas, you’ll have to fix it using the method that we’ve mentioned earlier.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re a first-timer, advanced painter, or a pro, you must enjoy painting by numbers. It’s quite easy for everyone, and even if you make mistakes, you can fix any missteps along the way.
After coming across our list of paint by number landscapes, finding your next work of art should be a few taps away.
Below is a Pinterest friendly photo…. so you can pin it to your Paint By Numbers Board!!
