Kit Difficulty Guide

Find the right paint-by-numbers kit for your skill level — from first-time painters to experienced artists seeking a challenge.

LEVEL 1 — BEGINNER

Beginner Kits

Perfect for first-time painters or anyone who wants a relaxing, low-pressure creative experience. Beginner kits are designed so that success is guaranteed with minimal prior experience.

  • Under 15 distinct colors — fewer paint pots to manage and fewer numbers to track
  • Large, clearly defined sections that are easy to fill without going over the lines
  • Simple subject matter — landscapes, single subjects, still life with clear shapes
  • Forgiving designs where minor imperfections blend naturally into the overall composition
  • Canvas sizes typically 16" x 20" or smaller for manageable scope
5–15Colors
3–8hCompletion Time
16×20"Typical Size

Best for: New painters, older adults, relaxation-focused painting, first-time gift purchases

LEVEL 2 — INTERMEDIATE

Intermediate Kits

For painters who have completed at least one kit and are ready for more nuance and visual complexity. Intermediate kits produce impressively detailed results that make excellent wall art.

  • 16–30 colors — broader palette for richer, more realistic color gradients
  • Moderate section detail — some smaller areas that require a thinner brush and steady hand
  • More complex subject matter — portraits with facial detail, multi-element landscapes, architectural subjects
  • Visible blending opportunities between adjacent colors creates depth when complete
  • Canvas sizes typically 16" x 20" to 20" x 24"
16–30Colors
8–20hCompletion Time
20×24"Typical Size

Best for: Hobbyist painters with some experience, those seeking a multi-session creative project, intermediate gifts

LEVEL 3 — ADVANCED

Advanced Kits

Advanced kits are challenging projects for experienced painters seeking photorealistic results and complex detail work. These require patience, fine brush control, and often multiple sessions to complete.

  • 30+ colors — sometimes 40–50+ colors for photorealistic subjects
  • Very fine sections — detailed facial features, hair strands, intricate textures
  • Complex subjects — detailed portraits, architectural masterpieces, wildlife close-ups
  • Large canvas sizes that reward careful, patient work with exceptional results
  • Require a range of brush sizes (fine liner to larger fill brush)
  • Results that rival professional artwork when completed carefully
30–50+Colors
20–50hCompletion Time
24×36"Typical Size

Best for: Experienced painters, dedicated hobbyists, those seeking a major art project for display

CHILDREN'S KITS

Children's Kits

Specially designed for younger painters — large sections, bright colors, non-toxic paints, and fun subject matter make these perfect for kids from about age 6 and up.

  • Extra-large numbered sections that are easy for small hands to fill
  • Bright, primary-heavy color palettes that produce vivid, exciting results
  • Fun subject matter — animals, cartoon characters, nature scenes, space themes
  • Non-toxic, washable acrylic paints safe for children
  • Typically 6–12 colors — enough to be engaging without being overwhelming
  • Smaller canvas sizes (usually 8" x 10" to 12" x 16") — appropriate for shorter attention spans
6–12Colors
1–4hCompletion Time
Age 6+Recommended

Best for: Children ages 6–12, family painting activities, rainy day projects, creative birthday gifts

Tips for Choosing the Right Kit

  • Start one level easier than you think you need: Most people overestimate their painting experience. A kit that feels easy is more enjoyable and builds confidence.
  • Consider the time commitment: Advanced kits can take 30–50 hours to complete. If you want to finish within a weekend, choose Beginner or Intermediate.
  • Subject matter matters: Choose a subject you genuinely love — you will be spending many hours with it and displaying it afterward.
  • Check the canvas size: Larger canvases generally have more detail and take longer, regardless of the difficulty level assigned by the manufacturer.
  • Custom kits: Many sellers offer custom paint-by-numbers kits from your own photos. These vary widely in quality — look for sellers who show actual completed examples of their custom kits.

Find Your Next Kit

Explore our community gallery for inspiration — see what other painters have completed at every level.

Browse the Gallery    Color Mixing Guide