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Drawn to true scale against an average adult, 170cm / 5ft 7in.
Cover the table, set good lighting, keep water and a paper towel nearby. Lightly iron the canvas on low (no steam) or tape it flat to a board.
2
Organize paints & match numbers
Open one color at a time to prevent drying. If thick, add a drop of water and mix. Keep lids closed when not in use.
3
Start smart
Work from top-to-bottom (or left-to-right if right-handed) to avoid smudges. Many painters begin with the background or darker areas for easy progress.
4
Use the right brush for the area
Small brush for tiny cells; larger brush for big areas. Glide the tip—don’t press or splay bristles. Cover numbers fully; add a second coat after drying if needed.
5
Rinse & dry between colors
Swirl in water, wipe on a towel until clean, then paint the next color. A barely damp brush gives cleaner edges.
6
Let sections dry
Acrylic dries fast—about 10–20 minutes depending on thickness. Touch up gaps or streaks once dry.
7
Store in-progress work
Close paint pots firmly; wipe rims so they reseal. Keep paints upright and the canvas flat.
8
Finish & frame
After 24 hours, optionally seal with a clear acrylic varnish (matte or gloss). Then frame and enjoy!
Pro tips
If a paint is too thick, add a single drop of water and mix. If too thin, use two light coats.
Mist closed paint pots lightly with water if you’re painting for a long session to slow drying.
For tiny areas, a toothpick or fine liner brush can help hit small corners cleanly.
Use daylight or a neutral white lamp so colors look true.
Not yet finished but am really enjoying this painting. Only criticism is the lighter colours need 2 coats to cover the printed number. But that is the same with all paint by numbers. I have 2 others to do after this and they will all go on my wall.