31 of the most stylish paint by numbers kits for adults

Discover the ultimate way to unwind and try these amazing paint by numbers kits and create your very own masterpiece! Paint by numbers for adults has swept the nation this year (it's even in our craft trends post). People everywhere are embracing the calming powers of making art in a stress-free and accessible way that doesn't require you to already be a talented artist.

If you haven't already tried it, paint by numbers kits are a truly soothing way to relax and unwind. There's something meditative about curling up with a kit and following the numbered sections with all the paints pre-mixed and set up for you.

We already know that crafting is officially good for us (see our article on Why crafting is good for your mental health). This beginner-friendly option is proving popular with brand new crafters as well as established makers alike.

With paint by numbers kits, not only can you dip your toe into the world of painting to see if it's for you (without having to splash out on a full set of high-end acrylic paints), but you get to watch a beautiful artwork spring to life in front of your eyes which is hugely satisfying. That's perhaps the reason that paint by numbers for adults has emerged as one of the biggest craft trends of this year - we predict that these kits will be topping many a wish list for Christmas 2023.

In this roundup we've focused on the best contemporary and stylish paint by numbers designs from a range of talented artists - we've thrown in a few of our favourite classic artworks for you to recreate at home, along with soothing scenes, illustrations and modern designs.

10 must-know tips before you start your paint by numbers kit

31 Paint by numbers for adults - the best kits to buy

Ok people, let's dive into a few of our absolute favourite kits out there. Prepare to relax and unwind with these beautiful designs...

1. Golden Lilly William Morris

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Traditional design, hanging kit,
• Cons: Can expensive
• Size: 16" x 20"
• Framed: DIY frame available
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Canvas By Numbers has made our year by releasing this easy-to-paint version of a William Morris classic Golden Lilly design. These classic art deco Paint by Numbers kits feature real canvases with detailed line art to fill in. Each section is labelled with a small number to show you which colour to paint. You'll also get a numbered acrylic-based paint set, 3 standard paintbrushes and a hanging kit. It's the ideal painting by numbers for adults!

2. Tiger paint by numbers kit

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Affordable, modern design, detailed instructions
• Cons: Can be finished quickly
• Size: 16" x 20"
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Paint the king of the jungle with this tropical-themed paint by numbers kit. The fearsome tiger is crouching along the jungle floor ready to strike! This powerful painting will add an impactful statement to your living room or would make a great gift for lovers of jungle and wildlife. Available on crease-free canvas in one size (40 x 50cm), this kit also comes complete with high-quality acrylic paint in all the colours needed.

3. Custom paint by numbers kit

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Personalised, free mockup,
• Cons: Expensive
• Size: 12" x 16" is smallest option
• Framed: Yes (optional)
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

This fabulous kit gives you the opportunity to paint a loved one, a pet or the whole family! All you need to do is send in the photo you'd like to paint, and choose your size and frame. Then the paint by numbers kit will be sent to you featuring 24 colours, you can upgrade to 36 or 42 colours if you prefer to, this will give you more detail in the painting. This would make a wonderful gift for many occasions but we especially think it would be lovely as a Mother's Day present.

4. St Ives seaside town

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: 30 paint pot colours, 4 brushes, primed canvas
• Cons: Expensive
• Size: 16" x 20"
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Paint this beautiful seaside town and have a piece of Cornwall in your living room. We know we said paint by numbers kits are relaxing but this is another level, taking the calm and warmness from the seaside along with the peacefulness of painting, bliss! In this kit, you'll find everything you need high-quality paints, several brushes and even little mixing pots.

5. William Morris Rose

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Traditional design, hanging kit, protective box
• Cons: Shipping may take a while
• Size: 16" x 20"
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

We had to include another William Morris painting on our list because they are just so beautiful, classic and exciting to paint. This kit is from china, so depending on where you are locating shipping might take a little longer (if you are thinking of this as a gift).

6. DIY deer!

• Buy it now from Amazon
• Pros: Pre-printed textured art canvas, colourful design
• Cons: Easy design
• Size: 16" x 20"
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Paint a wildlife wonder with this 16x18 inch Deer Paint By Numbers kit by LOKIPA. It includes a 16x20 inch canvas, 3 brushes and a set of high-quality paints, and we especially love how this finished design really has the effect of being painted freehand, but with all the soothing benefits of actually getting to follow a paint by numbers design, piece by piece.

7. Postbox cactus kit

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Can be made into greeting card, 5 designs and 5 plant reference
• Cons: Very simple and will be completed quickly
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

This lovely and modern kit is the perfect size to be delivered directly through the letterbox, no need to worry about couriers, or needing to be in to receive it. With a modern cactus design, this kit would make a fabulous gift or a treat for yourself.

8. Girl and dog relaxing by the pool

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: 25 acrylic paints, modern design, 4 brushes
• Cons: Expensive
• Size: 16" x 20"
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

This beautiful design from the Let's Paint Anywhere store on Etsy caught our eye immediately while we were shopping for Paint by Numbers for adults. Make your own botanical-style painting of a woman relaxing with her dog with this beautiful modern kit. It ships from China so you'll need to allow a few weeks for shipping - worth bearing in mind if you're considering it for a Christmas gift. The finished dimensions are 16x20".

9. Ballet dancers by Vikmari

• Pros: Magnifier, delicate design, gift box available
• Cons: Traditional design
• Size: 16" x 20"
• Framed: Yes (optional)
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Capture the behind-the-scenes glimpse of dancers warming up with this beautiful paint by numbers kit by Vikmari. It comes with an easy-to-read numbered canvas, a set of paintbrushes, pigments, magnifier and instructions. You'll just need to find a frame to finish.

10. Three animal paint by numbers

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Choose just one or all three designs, perfect for kids bedroom
• Cons: Simple design
• Size: "16 x "19 smallest option available
• Framed:No
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Because who doesn't love animals and crafts? (We've done quite an extensive survey of the Gathered team and it's pretty unanimous.) You'll paint this sweet squirrel and cute squirrel on a ready-to-go canvas measuring 30x40 cm (you can choose the size you want). This one does ship from China takes so you'll need to leave a bit longer for it to arrive but it's got rave reviews and is worth the wait.

11. Enjoy a city break

• Pros: Traditional design, eco-friendly, 3 different brush shapes
• Cons: May need ironing
• Size: 16" x 20"
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Escape to London from your home with this cityscape paint by numbers kit. It comes with eco-friendly acrylic paints, all mixed for you so all you have to do is match the numbers of the paint and the figures on the pre-prepared canvas to fill in the picture. This kit comes with 3 brush shapes and sizes to help you perfect your painting process. The frame is not included so you'll need to buy a frame separately to display your finished masterpiece.

12. Magpies and flowers

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Eco-friendly acrylic paints, high-quality linen canvas, hanging kit
• Cons: May need ironing
• Size: "16 x 19"
• Framed: Yes (optional)
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Paint some maximalist style with this boho-feel paint by numbers kit of beautiful birds and blossoms. It comes with numbered acrylic-based paints, a pre-printed numbered canvas, 3 paint brushes and a hanging kit.

13. Swimming Labrador

• Pros: Great for dog lovers, presented in gift box
• Cons: May need ironing
• Size: 16" x 19"
• Framed: Yes
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Paint man's best friend with this adorable paint by numbers kit. In this beautiful kit you'll receive everything you need to finish the painting plus a free DIY frame as a gift, so you'll be ready to proudly hang it up in your living room. This is an ideal gift for any dog-lover.

14. Modern style cactus

• Pros: 3 designs included, instruction options, option for duo painting!
• Cons: On artist paper not canvas
• Size: 8.3" x 11.7"
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Drop of Colour UK's beautiful trio of cacti paint by numbers kit is proving popular on Etsy, notching up almost a thousand kits sold so far. Your finished artwork will measure 8.3 x 11.7 inches each. They're the perfect pastel addition to your living room. You could even have a painting party (hello Bob Ross) where you and two friends paint one each.

15. Under the Sea

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Fun design, design unique to seller
• Cons: May require ironing
• Size: 16" x 19" smallest size
• Framed: Yes (optional)
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Paint the ocean's noblest creature with Handmade Prints Studio's painting by numbers kit. It comes with everything you need to start painting and measures at 15.7 x 20 inches. It would make the perfect gift for any surf lovers in your life and will be a joy to paint!

16. Paint by numbers red blooms

• Buy it now from Not on the High Street
• Pros: Modern design, simple to paint, free gift wrapping
• Cons: Expensive
• Size: 16" x 19"
• Framed: Yes
• Difficulty level: Intermediate adult

Brighten up any home with a splash of deep red florals with this abstract painting. Your painting kit will include an artists canvas (40 x 50 cm), a double set of acrylic paint so you never run out, a set of artists paintbrushes and a free DIY frame as a gift.

17. Seascape

• Pros: Written instructions, complimentary live virtual class, letterbox delivery
• Cons: Simple design
• Size: 11" x 8"
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Escape to the sea with DIY seascape by artist Victoria Obolensky. Paint your own crashing waves, weaving crowds and foaming froth with this Devon-based scene. This paint by numbers kit comes with everything you need – acrylic paints, brushes, a pre-sketched canvas and a sponge).

18. Venice city at night

• Pros: Extra paint, beautiful design, 3 brushes and 24 colour paints
• Cons: Requires high concentration
• Size: 19" x 15"
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Intermediate adult

Capture the beauty of Venice at night with this beautiful paint by numbers kit. With setting sun, hanging lamps and peaceful waters this will be a treat to paint. The kit includes pre-printed canvas, 24 colours and paintbrushes. They even offer 50% extra paint than is needed to complete the project just so you don't run out!

19. Pink lilies paint by numbers kit

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Professional oil canvas, pretty design, no need to add water to paint
• Cons: Intricate and requires high concentration
• Size: 19" x 15"
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Paint vintage pink lilies and get lost in this wonderful painting. With high-quality paints and canvas, you'll be feeling like an artist in no time. Everything you'll need can be found within this kit, and at a bargain price too!

20. Cat paint by numbers kit

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Detailed, high pigment paint, plenty of spare paint
• Cons: Paint colours may be slightly different to pictured
• Size: 19" x 15"
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Of course, we simply had to include a cat painting on this! We know a lot of crafters adore cats, we always find bringing those two aspects together makes for a popular project indeed! This large canvas features a cute tabby cat against a vibrant background. Everything you need will be included in the kit and you'll be able to get the painting straight away.

21. Tropical leaf paint by number kit

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Modern design, primed canvas, referenced picture
• Cons: Minimal design, quick to paint
• Size: 11" x 16"
• Framed: Yes (optional)
• Difficulty level:

Paint your own tropical forest with handkitco's paint by numbers kit. There are three A3 leaf designs to choose from (or buy all three for a matching set) each coming with everything you need to start painting. These would be great for a minimalist living room that needs a splash of green.

22. Pink sunset

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Easy-to-follow instructions, customisable kits
• Cons: Need to iron canvas
• Size: 12" x 16" smallest option available
• Framed: Yes (optional)
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

This modern and classy paint by numbers kit features a sun-drenched mountainscape with pine trees and setting sun. It is beautiful! And we would be very happy to look at this beautiful painting in our homes every day. This kit comes in a variety of options, choose the size of the canvas, how many colours you would like (the more colour the more detail) and you can even add a frame.

23. Minimalist paint by numbers kit

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Modern look, eco-friendly
• Cons: Needs two layers of paint
• Size: 12" x 16" or 16" x 20"
• Framed: Yes (optional)
• Difficulty level: Beginner adult

Great for beginners due to its simplistic design. Although simple, the design is beautiful and modern and would look fabulous hanging in any home. Within this kit, you'll receive a linen canvas, eco-friendly paint and paintbrushes. If you would like you can choose the option to include a frame.

24. Panda paint by numbers kit

• Pros: Affordable, suitable for kids, quick make
• Cons: Very easy
• Size: 8" x 8"
• Framed: Yes
• Difficulty level: Beginner 12+

If you're looking for an easy, straightforward project then this is the kit for you! This cute panda is blocky and doesn't contain lots of intricate details making it the perfect starter for painting (especially if you are not very confident and would like a less intimidating place to start). This project might be fun to get the kids involved with too, it would look cute on a nursery wall once it is finished.

25. Spaceman art

• Pros: Crease free, 24 coloured paints, includes magnifier
• Cons: Highly detailed, will take a long time
• Size: 16" x 20"
• Framed: Yes
• Difficulty level: Intermediate adult

We were blown away by this piece of artwork! The colour and style is totally unique and is ideal for anyone looking to take on a challenge. It might look tricky but thanks to clearly numbered spaces and magnifying glass you'll find it a breeze to make artwork like the pros.

26. Raccon painting

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Cute design, affordable
• Cons: Colour may vary slightly in real kit
• Size: 11" x 8"
• Framed: Yes (optional)
• Difficulty level: Beginner for 12+

How absolutely adorable is this raccoon paint by numbers kit! Chomping down on his watermelon this sweet critter is bound to be welcome in any home. This lovely design was created by an art teacher (a talented artist). The kit comes with everything you need including paint (no mixing required).

27. Hummingbird

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: 3 brushes included, range of sizes available
• Cons: Will need to be ironed out
• Size: 19" x 15" is the smallest size
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Intermediate adult

Paint one of natures marvels, the hummingbird! The hummingbird, impressively, is the only bird species with the ability to fly backwards (which comes in handy when they are feeding on nectar). This beautiful kit comes with everything you'll need, and in no time you'll be able to hang this beautiful painting on your wall.

28. Scandinavian postbox kit

• Pros: 5 postcard designs included, letterbox friendly, modern Scandi design
• Cons: Simple designs, only uses minimal colours
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Adult beginner

Spark your creativity with these 5 different Scandi winter prints which will arrive straight through the postbox! Hurrah, no more having to wait in for the delivery. This makes these paint by numbers kits the perfect gift too as they can be posted directly to the recipient. The beautiful prints celebrate Scandi living and nature and convey great peacefulness.

29. Rainy Day

• Buy it now from Not on the Highstreet
• Pros: Unique design, comes with wooden frame, gift box wrapped
• Cons: Expensive
• Size: 19" x 15"
• Framed: Yes
• Difficulty level: Intermediate adult

There's nothing quite like being indoors and cosy when it is raining and blustery outdoors. This lovely artwork will give you that feeling every time you look at it! The brightly coloured umbrellas and modern style will brighten up any home. You'll receive everything you need in this kit, including extra paints and a frame!

30. Floral woman

• Pros: Colourful, detailed
• Cons: Paints can be dry so make sure you add water before you begin
• Size: 19" x 15"
• Framed: No
• Difficulty level: Adult beginner

Paint this lovely and surrealist painting of a woman surrounded by flowers. Originally painted by Hülya Ozdemir, who amazingly captures vibrant women in paint. We suggest a google search if you are a fan of this painting. Anyway you can create your own version of this fabulous painting using this paint by numbers kit.

31. Turbulent seas

• Buy it now from Etsy
• Pros: Eco-friendly materials, easy-to-follow instructions
• Cons: Needs ironing to get rid of creases
• Size: 16" x 20"
• Framed: No but comes with a hanging kit
• Difficulty level: Adult beginner

Do you love the sound of crashing waves? Then this paint by numbers kit will be right up your street. In this lovely kit, you'll find all the materials you need and even a hanging kit so once you're finished you can proudly display it right away!

We hope you've enjoyed our roundup of the best paint by numbers for adults! Now you've got the painting bug why not check out our best watercolour paints post or if you're more into acrylics then have a read of our best gouache paints round up.

Looking for more creative projects to make? Check out our beautiful free macrame patterns.