Creating a custom paint by numbers kit involves several stages, each designed to transform your photograph into a painting-ready canvas. It is not as complicated as it sounds, think of it as translating a photograph into instructions that anyone can follow, regardless of their artistic experience.

What Happens When You Upload Your Photo

When you select an image and upload it to our platform, we do not just print it directly onto canvas. Instead, our system, a combination of AI analysis and expert artistry , begins converting your photo into a painting-ready template. The process takes your standard photograph and prepares it for painting, breaking down complex colours and details into numbered sections you can follow with confidence.

Timeline from Upload to Delivery

• Days 1–2: Photo analysis and initial design conversion
• Days 3–5: Artist review and numbering (if custom numbering is selected)
• Days 6–10: Canvas printing and kit assembly
• Days 11–14: Quality check and shipping

Most custom kits ship within two weeks. If you need your kit sooner, we offer expedited options. Free shipping is included on all Australian orders.

Here is what makes custom paint by numbers actually work, it is the combination of smart technology and human expertise working together at every stage.

Step 1: AI Photo Analysis

When you upload your photo, our system performs several analyses simultaneously:

• Image resolution scanning: We check whether your photo has enough detail to translate beautifully onto canvas. Minimum recommendation: 1920 x 1440 pixels.
• Colour palette extraction: The AI identifies the dominant colours in your image.
• Detail mapping: The system determines which areas of your image have high detail and which areas are simpler.
• Size recommendations: Based on your photo's composition, we suggest optimal canvas sizes, the more detail, the larger the canvas should be.

This happens instantly. You will get feedback on whether your photo is ideal for paint by numbers, or if you might want to choose a different image or edit it first.

Step 2: Photo-to-Painting Conversion

Next, your image gets converted into what we call a "paint-ready template." This is where the magic happens.

1. Colour simplification: We reduce your photo's colours from millions to a manageable palette (typically 25–40 colours). This ensures you can paint the kit without needing dozens of paint bottles.
2. Detail translation: High-detail areas, like eyes, facial features, or textures , get enhanced so they remain visible in the numbered canvas format.
3. Section division: The image is divided into numbered sections, each corresponding to a specific colour. These sections become the "paint by numbers" areas on your canvas.
4. Canvas outline: A subtle outline is printed onto the canvas so you can see where each numbered section begins and ends.

You will receive a preview of the design before we print it. This is your chance to approve the colours, composition, and level of detail.

Step 3: Artist Review (Optional)

If you have selected our "Artist's Touch" service, a real artist from our team reviews your design. They might adjust colours for better vibrancy, enhance details that might otherwise get lost, simplify overly complex areas, or suggest adjustments to ensure the best possible result. This step adds one to two days to your timeline, but many customers find it is worth the wait.

Step 4: Printing & Assembly

Once your design is finalised, your high-quality, pre-stretched canvas is selected based on your kit's size. The numbered design is printed using professional-grade inkjet printers, and a thin varnish layer seals the numbers and lines so they will not smudge when you paint. Paint bottles are colour-matched to your design's palette, brushes suited to the kit's detail level are included, and everything is carefully packed into a protective box before shipping.

Let us talk about what actually arrives at your door. Every custom paint by numbers kit from Paintly Kits is designed to include everything you need to start painting straight away.

Not every photo works equally well as custom paint by numbers. Choosing the right image is the single biggest factor in how your finished painting will look. Here is what makes a photo ideal, and what to avoid.

Best Photos for Custom Paint by Numbers

• High-resolution photos: Minimum 1920 x 1440 pixels. Larger is better (2400+ pixels for detailed portraits). Avoid heavily compressed photos from messaging apps.
• Clear, well-lit images: Natural outdoor lighting is ideal. Avoid photos taken in dim indoor lighting or with harsh shadows across faces or subjects.
• Good composition: Subject clearly visible and not too far away. Simple or blurred backgrounds work best, as complex backgrounds become muddled.

Best Subjects

• Pet portraits (dogs, cats, horses)
• Family portraits and couple photos
• Landscapes and nature scenes
• Meaningful memories and milestones

Photos to Avoid

• Group shots (10+ people become hard to distinguish)
• Very dark images (details get lost in shadows)
• Heavily blurry photos (cannot translate to numbered sections)
• Photos with excessive detail (like busy street scenes)
• Very small subjects (faces smaller than a postage stamp in the frame)

If you are unsure about your photo, our team can review it before you purchase and suggest edits. For detailed guidance, read our full guide on choosing the best photos for custom paint by numbers.

Once your kit arrives, here is how to paint it successfully. If you are new to paint by numbers, pair this section with our beginner tips guide for extra confidence.

Before You Start

1. Set up a well-lit workspace (natural light is best)
2. Lay out all paint bottles and note their numbers
3. Read the custom instruction guide that came with your kit
4. Gather water, brushes, and a palette

The Painting Process

1. Start with the lightest colours first. This prevents dark paint from showing through lighter colours.
2. Paint section by section. Find a numbered section on your canvas, locate the matching paint bottle, and paint within the lines.
3. Use two to three thin coats rather than one thick coat. This prevents paint from pooling and helps colours appear more vibrant.
4. Let paint dry between colour changes (15–30 minutes usually suffices).
5. Work your way to darker colours. Save the darkest shades and details for last.
6. Add final details carefully. Fine lines and highlights should be applied last, when you are most confident with the design.
7. Let your finished painting cure for 24–48 hours before hanging or displaying.

We know you are excited to start painting. Here is what to expect with shipping across Australia.

Timeframes begin after your photo is approved. We recommend uploading your photo immediately after ordering to start the clock as soon as possible.