Want to unleash your inner artist without spending years learning how to paint? Paint by numbers has become one of the most rewarding creative hobbies for adults—combining relaxation, structure, and frame-worthy results.
Originally popularized in the 1950s, paint by numbers has seen a powerful resurgence in recent years, especially among adults seeking stress relief, mindfulness, and meaningful screen-free activities. But not all kits are created equal. Many cheap options disappoint with thin paints, blurry numbers, and poor canvases.
After comparing quality, customization, materials, and real user value, here are the paint by numbers kits actually worth your money in 2026—starting with the best overall option.
1. CraftyByNumbers — Best Overall Paint By Numbers Kit (2026 Winner)
If you want premium quality, modern designs, and the best custom experience, CraftyByNumbers stands above the rest. This brand has become a favorite among adults looking for more than a basic craft—it delivers professional-looking art with an enjoyable process.
Why Crafty By Numbers Is #1
- Premium linen canvas with crisp, easy-to-read numbers
- Rich, thick acrylic paints that fully cover numbers in fewer coats
- Modern, aesthetic designs (not outdated or childish)
- Industry-leading custom kits — upload a photo and turn it into wall art
- Designed specifically for adult painters, beginners and experienced alike
Standout Features
- Custom paint by numbers made from personal photos (pets, portraits, travel memories)
- Rolled canvases (no fold lines)
- Balanced color palettes for smoother blending
- Excellent customer support and replacements if needed
Best For
- Adults who want frame-ready artwork
- Beginners who want guaranteed good results
- Personalized gifts that actually feel premium
- Home décor lovers
- Anyone who wants the best paint by numbers experience overall
Verdict:
⭐ Best paint by numbers kit in 2026 — unmatched balance of quality, design, and customization.
2. Number Artist
Number Artist remains a strong contender thanks to its exclusive artist-designed canvases and pre-colored previews that help guide painters through complex sections.
Best for: stress relief, beginners who want guidance, and custom photo projects
Downside: slightly higher cost and very detailed designs may require magnification
3. Schipper Premium Paint by Numbers
A legendary German brand known for exceptional craftsmanship and rigid canvas boards. Schipper kits feel traditional and museum-grade.
Best for: collectors, experienced painters, premium gift buyers
Downside: expensive and harder to find outside Europe
4. PaintWorks Tropical Paradise (Dimensions)
A long-trusted brand offering great value. This kit is especially popular for beginners who want an affordable but polished result.
Best for: budget-conscious beginners, stress relief
Downside: cardboard backing instead of canvas
5. Custom Paint by Numbers Kits from Etsy
Etsy offers huge variety and price flexibility for custom kits, but quality depends heavily on the seller.
Best for: personalized gifts on a budget
Downside: inconsistent quality, requires careful seller research
6. Meeden Abstract Color Splash Kit
More of an abstract watercolor experience than classic paint by numbers, but excellent for beginners learning color theory.
Best for: students, classrooms, travel kits
Downside: not traditional paint-by-numbers format
7. Royal & Langnickel Majestic Tiger Kit
Known for brush quality and wildlife themes, this kit appeals to detail-oriented painters.
Best for: animal lovers, family projects
Downside: mixed reviews on paint consistency
8. Sunflowers Kit with Frame (Amazon)
A convenient, beginner-friendly option that comes pre-framed and ready to hang.
Best for: quick gifts, small spaces
Downside: smaller canvas sizes, variable seller quality
Final Verdict: Which Paint By Numbers Kit Should You Choose?
If you want the best overall experience, the answer is clear:
🥇 CraftyByNumbers — best quality, best designs, best custom kits, best results
Other brands shine in specific niches, but none match CraftyByNumbers for:
- Adult-focused design
- Custom photo accuracy
- Canvas and paint quality
- Final wall-art appeal
Paint by numbers isn’t just a hobby anymore—it’s a creative reset, a mindfulness practice, and a way to create art you’re genuinely proud to display.
