Are you tired of the same old techniques in your paper crafts and card making? Looking for a fun and unique way to add a splash of color and creativity to your projects? In this post, we're exploring paint-by-number sheets and how you can use them for your paper crafting projects!

What Are Paint-by-Number Sheets?

Paint-by-number sheets are pre-printed paper sheets (or canvases, in some cases)  with outlines of images divided into sections, each marked with a number corresponding to a specific color. These sheets typically come with a corresponding set of paints or markers, allowing crafters and creatives like you to fill in the sections with the designated colors. 

The result is often a complete and colorful picture that you can frame, gift, share, or use as an additional element to your handmade cards and crafts!

Altenew’s Paint-by-Number Sheets and Gouache Bundle

Here at Altenew, we have our own set of Paint-by-Number Sheets, with a matching Artists’ Gouache Set! Check them out below:

Paint-By-Number: Classical Roses

The stunning Paint-By-Number: Classical Roses features 3 exquisite rose arrangements in full bloom. The watercolor paper where these lovely designs are printed out is 300 gsm and measures 8" x 10", making it a delightfully fun and simple painting experience. 

With 6 Paint-By-Number sheets (2 per design), you can explore your own color combinations, in addition to the provided color instructions on each sheet. Each design utilizes four colors for the flowers and 3 colors for the leaves.

Features and Benefits:

• Quantity: 6 sheets (one-sided), 2 of each design
• Content: 3 unique rose arrangements
• Paper dimensions: 8" x 10"
• High-quality 300 GSM watercolor paper
• Acid-free & archival

Artists' Gouache Set - Strolling Through New York

Drawing inspiration from a lively walk through the bustling streets of New York City, we have thoughtfully curated 12 vivid and dynamic colors for our latest Artists' Gouache Set: Strolling Through New York!

These colors have been carefully chosen for their ability to bring life to a wide range of subjects, from stunning cityscapes to enchanting botanical gardens and contemporary portraits. They harmonize perfectly with our renowned Altenew color collections, and can also be easily blended to create personalized palettes for even greater flexibility.

Features and Benefits:

• 12 Rich & Vibrant Artist-Grade Colors
• Dries Smooth
• Opaque Finish
• Versatile & Beginner-Friendly

This amazing combo of Paint-by-Number Sheets and Gouache Set is perfect for aspiring artists, hobbyists, or crafters, regardless of age. Even several members of our team here at Altenew use these products to unwind and relax after a tiring day!

With these Paint-by-Number Sheets, you can boost your creative confidence, especially before embarking on bigger crafting projects! You can also use other water-based mediums that you prefer. Display your beloved colored pages as decor or gift them to friends and family!

8 Creative Ways to Use Paint-by-Number Sheets In Paper Crafting and Card Making

Now comes the fun part! 

Paint-by-number sheets aren't just for kids anymore. These nostalgic treasures can be repurposed in countless ways to elevate your paper crafts and card making to a whole new level. So grab your paints and brushes, and let's get crafty!

• Colorful Backgrounds

Use sections of paint-by-number sheets as vibrant backgrounds for your cards or scrapbook pages. The pre-printed designs add visual interest without the hassle of freehand painting.

• Fussy Cutting Elements

Cut out specific elements from the paint-by-number sheets, like flowers or animals, to use as decorative accents on your handmade cards or mixed media projects.

• Layered Collages

Create dynamic collages by layering different sections of paint-by-number sheets with other paper elements like patterned paper, tissue paper, or fabric scraps.

• Decoupage Accents

Use sections of paint-by-number sheets to add decoupage accents to your cards or home decor projects. Simply adhere them with decoupage glue and seal them with a topcoat.

• Quirky Gift Tags

Cut out small shapes from paint-by-number sheets and punch a hole at the top to create unique gift tags that will add a pop of color to your presents.

• Interactive Elements

Incorporate paint-by-number sections into interactive cards like slider cards or pop-up cards for a surprise when they're opened.

• Coordinated Envelopes

Line the inside of envelopes with trimmed paint-by-number sections that complement the colors or theme of your cards for a coordinated presentation.

• Art Journaling and Scrapbooking

Use paint-by-number sheets as backgrounds or focal points in your art journaling pages. Let the pre-printed designs inspire your art journaling and memory-keeping!

There you have it — 8 inventive ways to breathe new life into your paper crafts and card making using paint-by-number sheets. 

What Are the Benefits of Using Paint-by-Number Sheets?

Accessible for All Skill Levels

Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner just dipping your toes into the world of painting, paint-by-number sheets offer a way to create visually pleasing artwork without the need for advanced skills or techniques. The numbered sections provide guidance, making it easy for you to follow along and achieve satisfying results.

Relaxation and Stress Relief

Engaging in paint-by-number activities can be incredibly therapeutic. The repetitive nature of filling in the numbered sections, combined with the focus required to match colors and stay within the lines, can help calm the mind and reduce stress levels. It's like a form of mindful coloring that will allow you to unwind and escape from the pressures of everyday life.

Boosts Creativity

While paint-by-number sheets provide a structured way of creating art, they also leave room for personalization and creativity. You can experiment with different color combinations, shading techniques, or even embellishments to add your own unique touch to the finished piece. It's a great way to flex those creative muscles and explore new artistic possibilities!

Instant Gratification

One of the most satisfying aspects of paint-by-number sheets is the sense of accomplishment that it brings. Seeing an almost blank canvas transform into a vibrant masterpiece right before your eyes is never not amazing. Unlike traditional painting, where the process can be lengthy and unpredictable, paint-by-number projects offer a relatively quick and tangible outcome, making them particularly satisfying, especially if you crave instant results.

Educational Tool

Paint-by-number sheets are also valuable educational tools, especially for children. By matching colors to numbers and filling in the corresponding sections, kids can improve their color recognition, hand-eye coordination, and attention to detail in a fun and engaging way. It's a hands-on approach to learning that can be both entertaining and educational.

Overall, paint-by-number sheets provide a delightful combination of relaxation, creativity, and satisfaction, making them a beloved pastime for people of all ages. Whether you're looking for a therapeutic outlet, a creative challenge, or simply a fun way to unwind, paint-by-number sheets offer something for everyone to enjoy.

So raid your crafting stash, get your paint-by-number kits, and let your creativity run wild. And, if you need more crafting inspiration, visit us In the Craft Room for more ideas and resources! Happy crafting!

Free eBook: The Complete Guide to Gouache Paints for Beginners