How to Make your own DIY Paint by Number Canvas

Make a Paint by Numbers canvas

Making your own Paint By Numbers Canvas to paint is not very complicated and it's a fun project for the entire family to get involved in.

Currently, in these uncertain times, especially with lockdown rules in place for the upcoming festive season, it is satisfying to engage in a craft project that is easy to complete at home, doesn't require hard to find resources and results in a beautiful piece of art that you can display with pride. I guarantee that once you've tried making your own Paint By Numbers canvas, you'll be addicted to the craft.

DIY Paint By Numbers Tools

Video

Gather these resources/tools before you begin.(I suggest starting with an A3 size print).

Artist's canvas, slightly bigger than A3 in size( 40 x 50cm is nice, and gives you space for framing)(You could also use a ready-made box framed canvas in A3 size).
Sponge roller brush, or wall painting brush.
Old credit card or suitable piece of plastic, or spatula for smoothing.
Mod Podge, Gel (see video) or watered down screen printing tacky glue.(white glue mixed with water).
A3 laser print of design from Itsostylish's DIY Paint by Numbers Digital collection.(Do not use an InkJet printer).Download here
Dishwashing sponge.
Water.
Paint and brushes.

How to make your Paint by Number Canvas

First read all the instructions and watch the video on YouTube

Place your canvas on a sheet of plastic on a table surface.
Cover the surface of the canvas with your chosen medium. It must be evenly coated and thoroughly covered.
Place the reversed laser print of the design onto the canvas, beginning on one short side and slowly smoothing it down with your hands as you go.
Smooth out any air bubbles with an old credit card.
Leave to dry for at least 24 hours, it must be completely dry.
Wet the paper thoroughly and start peeling off the paper leaving the print behind. You might need to gently rub the paper off with your finger to remove it all. (See video)
Leave to dry.
Buy the main colors on the color chart, see the RGB names on the chart and the color names on the listing page.
Mix the lighter or darker shades of the colors as you go along.
Match the numbers to the suggested paint color.
Paint your DIY Paint by Number.

How to Make your own DIY Paint by Number Canvas