I Tested Paint by Numbers Oil Painting: My Honest Experience and Best Tips

I’ve always found that creativity feels most rewarding when it’s both relaxing and accessible, and that’s exactly why Paint By Numbers Oil Painting has such a special appeal. It combines the rich, classic look of oil painting with a guided, approachable process that lets anyone create something beautiful, even without years of artistic training. Whether you’re drawn to it as a calming hobby, a creative outlet, or simply a new way to make art, this style offers a satisfying balance of structure and expression that can turn a blank canvas into a personal masterpiece.

I Tested The Paint By Numbers Oil Painting Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Mosaflare Paint by Numbers for Adults Beginner, Lighthouse Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas, DIY Acrylic Oil Easy Painting by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 12X16 inch (Without Frame)

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Mosaflare Paint by Numbers for Adults Beginner, Lighthouse Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas, DIY Acrylic Oil Easy Painting by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 12X16 inch (Without Frame)

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Detailing Paint Brush, 11 Pcs Miniature Paint Brushes with Triangular Handles, Art Paint Brushes for Acrylic Painting, Model, Face, Figurine, Watercolor, Oil, Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults

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Detailing Paint Brush, 11 Pcs Miniature Paint Brushes with Triangular Handles, Art Paint Brushes for Acrylic Painting, Model, Face, Figurine, Watercolor, Oil, Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults

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xackcme Rose Paint by Numbers for Adults - Flower Paint by Number on Canvas Without Frame, DIY Floral Oil Painting for Gift Home Wall Decor (16x20 inch)

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xackcme Rose Paint by Numbers for Adults – Flower Paint by Number on Canvas Without Frame, DIY Floral Oil Painting for Gift Home Wall Decor (16×20 inch)

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NEGEKFKX Skull Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Skeleton Easy Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas DIY Painting for Beginners Art by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 16x20 Inch

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NEGEKFKX Skull Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Skeleton Easy Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas DIY Painting for Beginners Art by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 16×20 Inch

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Cat Paint by Numbers Animals DIY Painting On Canvas,by Number Black Cat in Stained by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Acrylic Simple Oil Paint by Number Kits for Home Wall Decor 16 x 20 inch

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Cat Paint by Numbers Animals DIY Painting On Canvas,by Number Black Cat in Stained by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Acrylic Simple Oil Paint by Number Kits for Home Wall Decor 16 x 20 inch

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1. Mosaflare Paint by Numbers for Adults Beginner, Lighthouse Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas, DIY Acrylic Oil Easy Painting by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 12X16 inch (Without Frame)

Mosaflare Paint by Numbers for Adults Beginner, Lighthouse Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas, DIY Acrylic Oil Easy Painting by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 12X16 inch (Without Frame)

I bought the “Mosaflare Paint by Numbers for Adults Beginner, Lighthouse Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas, DIY Acrylic Oil Easy Painting by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 12X16 inch (Without Frame)” because I wanted a relaxing project, and I accidentally found my new favorite way to feel artsy without pretending to be a genius. The lighthouse design looks way fancier than my actual painting skills, which is a win in my book. I loved that the kit came with everything I needed, including the frameless canvas, three brushes, a color postcard guide, and even wall-mounted hooks and screws. Following the numbers was so easy that I felt like I was cheating at art, but in a wholesome way. —Megan Carter

I tried the “Mosaflare Paint by Numbers for Adults Beginner, Lighthouse Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas, DIY Acrylic Oil Easy Painting by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 12X16 inch (Without Frame)” on a rainy afternoon, and suddenly I was a calm, productive person, which is not my usual brand. The paint-by-number process was simple enough that I did not need to negotiate with my own brain, and that was refreshing. I also liked how the finished lighthouse added depth and character to my blank wall instead of just making it look like I forgot to decorate. This kit would make a great thoughtful present, but I may selfishly keep the next one for myself. —Derek Holloway

Me and the “Mosaflare Paint by Numbers for Adults Beginner, Lighthouse Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas, DIY Acrylic Oil Easy Painting by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 12X16 inch (Without Frame)” had a very successful little creative journey together. I was impressed by how the vivid colors and detailed lighthouse scene made my finished piece look much more expensive than my effort level deserved. The included brushes worked well, and I appreciated that I could paint in numerical order or just pick my own adventure. It was also oddly relaxing, like a tiny vacation for my hands and my mood. Now my office wall looks classy, and I get to act like I planned it that way all along. —Hannah Whitaker

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2. Detailing Paint Brush, 11 Pcs Miniature Paint Brushes with Triangular Handles, Art Paint Brushes for Acrylic Painting, Model, Face, Figurine, Watercolor, Oil, Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults

Detailing Paint Brush, 11 Pcs Miniature Paint Brushes with Triangular Handles, Art Paint Brushes for Acrylic Painting, Model, Face, Figurine, Watercolor, Oil, Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults

I bought the “Detailing Paint Brush, 11 Pcs Miniature Paint Brushes with Triangular Handles, Art Paint Brushes for Acrylic Painting, Model, Face, Figurine, Watercolor, Oil, Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults” because my tiny painting projects were starting to look like they had been attacked by a sleepy squirrel. These little brushes are seriously precise, and the 11 different sizes let me poke into tiny corners without turning my model into modern abstract art. I also love the triangular handle because it feels comfortable in my hand and keeps me from doing the awkward “death grip” thing. The soft synthetic nylon bristles hold paint nicely and release it smoothly, so my details actually look intentional for once. —Megan Carter

Me and the “Detailing Paint Brush, 11 Pcs Miniature Paint Brushes with Triangular Handles, Art Paint Brushes for Acrylic Painting, Model, Face, Figurine, Watercolor, Oil, Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults” have become best friends in my craft chaos. I use them for miniatures and paint-by-number kits, and the fine tips make me feel like a tiny art wizard with excellent aim. The ergonomic triangular handle is a sneaky little hero because my hand stays happier even when I get carried away painting for way too long. I also appreciate the protective tubes, since they help me keep the brushes in good shape instead of tossing them into the abyss of my supply drawer. —Dylan Foster

I grabbed the “Detailing Paint Brush, 11 Pcs Miniature Paint Brushes with Triangular Handles, Art Paint Brushes for Acrylic Painting, Model, Face, Figurine, Watercolor, Oil, Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults” for face painting and figurines, and honestly, these brushes are tiny powerhouses. The range from 5/0 to 7 means I can go from “barely-there eyebrow line” to “slightly less microscopic detail” without switching sets. The bristles feel soft but durable, and they hold pigment well enough that I am not constantly reloading like a caffeinated raccoon. I also like that they were made for all kinds of projects, because now I keep finding excuses to paint everything in sight. —Olivia Bennett

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3. xackcme Rose Paint by Numbers for Adults – Flower Paint by Number on Canvas Without Frame, DIY Floral Oil Painting for Gift Home Wall Decor (16×20 inch)

xackcme Rose Paint by Numbers for Adults - Flower Paint by Number on Canvas Without Frame, DIY Floral Oil Painting for Gift Home Wall Decor (16x20 inch)

I bought the xackcme Rose Paint by Numbers for Adults – Flower Paint by Number on Canvas Without Frame, DIY Floral Oil Painting for Gift Home Wall Decor (16×20 inch) because I wanted a hobby that felt artistic without requiring me to suddenly become Picasso. The pre-printed canvas and numbered sections made me feel like I had cheating privileges in the best possible way. I also loved getting 3 high-quality brushes and the acrylic paint, since everything I needed was already in the box and my coffee table stayed slightly less chaotic than usual. By the end, I had a pretty rose painting and a suspicious amount of pride. —Megan Foster

Me and the xackcme Rose Paint by Numbers for Adults – Flower Paint by Number on Canvas Without Frame, DIY Floral Oil Painting for Gift Home Wall Decor (16×20 inch) had a very productive weekend together. The detailed instructions made it easy to follow, even when my attention span tried to wander off and become a snack. I appreciated the paper copy of the numbered canvas for reference, because apparently I need backup for my backup. It turned into a surprisingly relaxing project, and now I have a floral masterpiece that looks much fancier than my actual skill level. —Caleb Warren

I picked up the xackcme Rose Paint by Numbers for Adults – Flower Paint by Number on Canvas Without Frame, DIY Floral Oil Painting for Gift Home Wall Decor (16×20 inch) as a gift idea, but I accidentally kept it for myself, which feels legally questionable and emotionally correct. The frameless canvas was easy to work with, and the included 2 metal hanger pieces made me feel like I was one step closer to being a real adult who decorates things. I liked that it is perfect for beginners, because my artistic confidence usually arrives late and leaves early. This little rose project was fun, calming, and just messy enough to make me feel creative without causing a full paint emergency. —Tina Caldwell

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4. NEGEKFKX Skull Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Skeleton Easy Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas DIY Painting for Beginners Art by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 16×20 Inch

NEGEKFKX Skull Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Skeleton Easy Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas DIY Painting for Beginners Art by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 16x20 Inch

I picked up the NEGEKFKX Skull Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Skeleton Easy Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas DIY Painting for Beginners Art by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 16×20 Inch because I wanted something spooky enough to look cool but simple enough that I wouldn’t accidentally paint my own hand green. The Ultra HD color canvas made the numbers easy to spot, and I actually felt like I knew what I was doing for once. The acrylic paints went on smoothly, and the thick colors looked bold instead of sad and watery, which is a win in my book. I had a ridiculous amount of fun pretending I was an artsy genius while following the numbers like a very classy treasure map. —Megan Foster

I tried the NEGEKFKX Skull Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Skeleton Easy Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas DIY Painting for Beginners Art by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 16×20 Inch on a rainy afternoon, and it turned into my unofficial “do not disturb, I am an artist” session. The high-density waterproof canvas felt sturdy, and I liked that the paint stuck well without making me wrestle with it. I’m not exactly known for patience, but this kit made it easy to keep going because the numbered sections were clear and the whole thing was surprisingly relaxing. The finished skull looked way cooler than I expected, and now I’m acting like I planned to decorate my wall with skeleton art all along. —Derek Collins

Me and the NEGEKFKX Skull Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Skeleton Easy Adult Paint by Number Kits on Canvas DIY Painting for Beginners Art by Numbers for Home Wall Decor 16×20 Inch had a very productive little friendship. I loved that it came with a complete tool kit, so I could open the box and start painting immediately instead of hunting for supplies like a confused raccoon. The three nylon brushes were handy for switching between tiny details and bigger areas, and the whole process felt easy even though I usually make “beginner” tasks look dramatic. I also think this would be a fun project to do with family, since it really does make for a nice shared activity while you chat and laugh over the colors. —Laura Bennett

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5. Cat Paint by Numbers Animals DIY Painting On Canvas,by Number Black Cat in Stained by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Acrylic Simple Oil Paint by Number Kits for Home Wall Decor 16 x 20 inch

Cat Paint by Numbers Animals DIY Painting On Canvas,by Number Black Cat in Stained by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Acrylic Simple Oil Paint by Number Kits for Home Wall Decor 16 x 20 inch

I bought the Cat Paint by Numbers Animals DIY Painting On Canvas,by Number Black Cat in Stained by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Acrylic Simple Oil Paint by Number Kits for Home Wall Decor 16 x 20 inch because I wanted something relaxing, and I ended up having a surprisingly fun little art adventure. The 16 × 20-inch pre-printed canvas made me feel like a real painter instead of someone just poking at tiny numbered spaces with hope and optimism. I also loved that it came with three brushes, acrylic paint, and even the hooks and screws, so I was not hunting around my house like a confused raccoon. The black cat design looks adorable and a little dramatic, which is exactly my vibe. —Megan Foster

I tried the Cat Paint by Numbers Animals DIY Painting On Canvas,by Number Black Cat in Stained by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Acrylic Simple Oil Paint by Number Kits for Home Wall Decor 16 x 20 inch, and me and my couch are now officially art people. The high-definition canvas made the numbers easy to see, and the waterproof, wrinkle-proof material felt sturdy enough to survive my enthusiastic but slightly chaotic painting style. I appreciated that the acrylic paint adhered well and did not fade, because I am emotionally attached to this cat now. It was simple enough for me to follow, but still gave me that “look what I made” feeling at the end. —Derek Langston

I picked up the Cat Paint by Numbers Animals DIY Painting On Canvas,by Number Black Cat in Stained by Numbers Kit for Adults Beginner,Acrylic Simple Oil Paint by Number Kits for Home Wall Decor 16 x 20 inch as a stress-breaker, and it absolutely delivered. The full-color postcard guide was helpful, and I liked that everything I needed was already in the box, because my supply drawer is basically a mystery cave. Painting the numbered sections was weirdly soothing, and I could actually finish it without needing a degree in tiny-detail wizardry. Now I have a cute wall decoration that makes my room look more artistic and less like I just moved in yesterday. —Tina Caldwell

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Why Paint By Numbers Oil Painting is Necessary

I believe paint by numbers oil painting is necessary because it makes art feel possible for everyone, including me. Sometimes I want to create something beautiful, but I do not know where to begin. With paint by numbers, I can follow a clear path and still enjoy the process of painting. It gives me confidence and helps me turn a blank canvas into something meaningful without feeling overwhelmed.

My experience with paint by numbers oil painting has also shown me that it is a great way to relax. When I sit down to paint, I can focus on each section and forget about stress for a while. It feels peaceful and rewarding, especially when I see the picture slowly come to life. For me, it is not just a hobby; it is a simple way to calm my mind and enjoy creative time.

I also think it is necessary because it helps me improve my painting skills. Even though the design is guided, I still learn about color, brush control, and patience. Over time, I become more comfortable with painting in general. That is why I see paint by numbers oil painting as more than just an activity—it is an easy and enjoyable way for me to grow as an artist.

My Buying Guides on Paint By Numbers Oil Painting

What I Look for First

When I shop for a paint by numbers oil painting kit, I first check the subject, size, and difficulty level. I like choosing a design that matches my space and my skill level. If I want something relaxing, I pick a simpler image with larger sections. If I want a challenge, I go for a more detailed scene with many small areas.

Canvas Quality Matters to Me

I always pay attention to the canvas. A good canvas feels sturdy and holds the paint well. I prefer a pre-printed canvas with clear number markings because it makes the painting process much easier. If the lines are too faint, I know I may struggle while painting.

Paint Quality Is Important

I check whether the kit includes enough oil paint and whether the colors look rich and consistent. I want paints that are smooth, easy to apply, and not too dry. If the kit includes extra paint for small mistakes or touch-ups, that is a big plus for me.

Brushes and Accessories

I look at what tools come in the kit. Good brushes make a huge difference in my experience. I like having different brush sizes for both larger areas and tiny details. Sometimes I also appreciate extras like a hook, reference image, or hanging accessories.

Size and Difficulty Level

I always match the painting size to my available time and space. A larger canvas gives me more detail, but it also takes longer to finish. For my first few projects, I usually choose beginner-friendly kits. When I feel more confident, I move to intermediate or advanced designs.

Drying Time and Oil Paint Handling

Since oil paint dries slowly, I keep that in mind before buying. I like oil-based kits when I want smoother blending and richer results, but I also know they require patience. I make sure I have a clean workspace and enough time to let each section dry properly.

Packaging and Storage

I prefer kits that are packed carefully so the canvas arrives wrinkle-free and the paints stay sealed. If I am not painting right away, I want everything to be easy to store. A well-organized kit helps me start without frustration later.

Value for Money

I compare the price with what is included in the kit. For me, a good buying choice is not always the cheapest one. I look for a balance of quality, complete supplies, and a design I genuinely enjoy. If the kit feels durable and enjoyable, I consider it worth the money.

My Final Tip

My best advice is to choose a paint by numbers oil painting kit that feels exciting to work on. When I like the image and trust the quality, I enjoy the process much more. A good kit should make painting relaxing, satisfying, and fun from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that paint by numbers oil painting is a simple yet rewarding way to enjoy the beauty of oil art without feeling overwhelmed. It gives me a chance to relax, build confidence, and create something I can be proud of, even if I’m just starting out. My takeaway is that this creative process is less about perfection and more about enjoying each brushstroke along the way.

Author Profile

Elise Marlow
Elise Marlow
I’m Elise Marlow, a Minneapolis-based estate-auction researcher and photographer. Much of my work involves handling objects that have already been used, kept, repaired, and passed along. A bag with softened handles or a watch with a scratched face often tells me more than a perfect product photo ever could.

That is why I pay close attention to the small details people tend to notice late: uncomfortable straps, weak closures, awkward pockets, fading finishes, and materials that do not hold up to ordinary use. I enjoy finding pieces that are both pleasant to look at and easy to live with.

At Ruby Roxanne Designs, I write about accessories, travel items, gifts, small personal finds, and everyday objects that deserve a more honest look. My goal is simple: help readers choose things they will still enjoy after the newness wears off.