Paint by numbers is a favorite for many people because it makes starting art easy. But if you want to try something new or express yourself in different ways, there are plenty of other options. Paint by numbers gives you structure, but it can also feel limiting. If you want more freedom, a different hands-on experience, or a digital option with less mess, you have lots of choices to explore.
This guide introduces over 20 alternatives to paint by numbers, from hands-on crafts to the latest digital tools. You'll also find tips to help you pick the best option for your skills, budget, and creative interests.
Why Look for Alternatives to Paint by Numbers?
Paint by numbers has earned its place in the craft world for good reason. However, it has its limitations. Users often report that light colors require multiple coats to cover the printed numbers fully, and visible lines and circles can remain after the painting is finished. Paints can sometimes be dry or clumpy, making it difficult to work in smaller areas.
Aside from product quality, the structure of paint by numbers can feel limiting. Since every section is planned out, you have less chance to choose colors, textures, or how your art looks. Trying other options helps you learn new skills, add your own style and feelings, and enjoy the satisfaction of making art that is truly yours.
Hands-On Craft Alternatives
1. Diamond Painting
Diamond painting is a blend of cross stitch and paint by numbers that involves sticking tiny, sparkling resin "diamonds" onto a sticky, color-coded canvas. It creates a dazzling, mosaic-like effect with a three-dimensional shimmer.
How it differs from paint by numbers: The process is more repetitive and straightforward. You pick up a gem, place it on the matching symbol, and repeat. There’s no worry about paint spilling or mixing colors by mistake, which makes it very calming. Also, you don’t have to wait for anything to dry, so you can pause and continue whenever you like.
Who it suits: Those who enjoy meditative repetition, love sparkle and glamour in their finished piece, or want a craft that's easy to start and stop with minimal mess.
Time investment: A medium-sized canvas (40×50 cm) typically takes 15–30 hours, as every square centimeter must be covered with individual diamonds.
2. Cross Stitch
Cross stitch is a form of hand embroidery that uses X-shaped stitches in a tiled pattern to form a picture, typically on grid-like Aida cloth. Many ex cross stitchers end up taking up diamond painting as it is very similar in process, but cross stitch itself remains a timeless and deeply satisfying craft.
How it differs from paint by numbers: This craft is all about thread and fabric, offering a traditional, tactile feel. The finished result is a textured, fabric-based piece that can be framed or incorporated into functional items like pillows.
Who it suits: Those who love textile arts and want a portable, screen-free hobby with a rich history.
3. Adult Coloring Books
Adult coloring books have surged in popularity as a relaxing, meditative experience. Unlike paint by numbers, coloring books allow individuals to choose their colors and create unique interpretations of intricate designs.
How it differs from paint by numbers: Maximum creative freedom with minimal skill requirements. There's no predetermined color scheme—every page is an opportunity for personal expression. The variety is staggering, with themes ranging from mandalas and nature scenes to pop culture references.
Who it suits: Anyone looking for the cheapest, most accessible entry into creative relaxation. Adult coloring can work wonders for helping you switch off. Just be aware that if using felt-tip pens, the ink may bleed through the pages, so place a spare sheet of paper behind the page or purchase thicker paper books.
4. DIY Paint Kits
DIY paint kits have emerged as a popular alternative to traditional paint by numbers. These kits typically include a pre-printed canvas with a basic outline, along with high-quality paints and brushes. The key difference is that they offer greater creative freedom in color choice and technique.
Who it suits: Aspiring painters who want structure without the rigidity of numbered sections. These kits serve as a valuable learning experience, allowing you to experiment with different painting techniques, color mixing, and brushwork.
5. Watercolor Painting
Watercolor painting offers a completely different approach to color application. The fluid nature of watercolors allows for soft blends and washes, creating ethereal effects that are impossible to achieve with acrylic paint by numbers.
Techniques to explore: Wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, layering, and salt effects. These techniques encourage exploration and creativity, and watercolor can be incredibly forgiving, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
6. Acrylic Pouring
Acrylic pouring means mixing acrylic paint with a special medium and then pouring it onto a canvas to make flowing, natural patterns. You don’t need brushes or numbers; you just let gravity and the paint do the work.
Who it suits: Those who enjoy unpredictability and want stunning abstract art with minimal technical skill required.
7. Dot Painting (Mandala Art)
Dot painting uses the tip of a brush, stylus, or special dotting tools to create intricate patterns made entirely of dots. Popularized by Aboriginal Australian art, this technique can produce mesmerizing mandalas and geometric designs.
Who it suits: Detail-oriented crafters who enjoy precision and pattern-based art.
8. Scratch Art
Scratch art has a black surface that hides bright colors underneath. When you scratch the surface, the colors appear. Instead of adding color like painting, you take away the black to show the picture.
Who it suits: Those who want instant gratification with dramatic visual contrast. Particularly appealing for younger audiences and beginners.
9. Embroidery and Needlepoint
Like cross stitch but more freeform, embroidery allows you to create designs using various stitches on fabric. Modern embroidery kits make it accessible to beginners while offering experienced crafters endless possibilities for creative expression.
Who it suits: Textile lovers who want more creative flexibility than cross stitch allows.
10. Mosaic Art Kits
Mosaic kits let you arrange small pieces of glass, ceramic, or stone to create patterns and images. Like diamond painting but using traditional materials, mosaic art has a history spanning thousands of years.
Who it suits: Those who enjoy the tactile satisfaction of diamond painting but prefer authentic art materials over plastic gems.
11. Pottery and Clay Modeling
Working with clay, either on a potter’s wheel or by shaping it with your hands, gives you a three-dimensional creative experience. This is very different from the flat, two-dimensional art of paint by numbers.
Who it suits: Hands-on creators who want to make functional art pieces like mugs, bowls, and sculptures.
12. Sketching and Drawing
Sometimes, the simplest choice is the most satisfying. With just a pencil and paper, you can start learning about lines, shading, and how to arrange your drawing however you like.
Who it suits: Anyone ready to build fundamental art skills from the ground up. Drawing is the foundation of almost all visual art forms.
Digital Alternatives
13. Digital Art Applications
Digital art apps are a modern option instead of paint by numbers. They let you make great art on tablets or smartphones. Most apps are easy to use and have lots of tools, so they work well for both beginners and experienced artists.
Key advantages: You can customize almost everything. Artists can change colors, brush sizes, and textures without worrying about real-life materials. Many apps let you use your own images as digital canvases. Some platforms also have communities where you can share your art and get feedback.
14. Procreate (iOS)
Procreate is a popular app with professional tools for drawing and painting on iPad and iPhone. It has features like layers and adjustable brushes, giving you the power of desktop software on a mobile device.
Cost: One-time purchase of $12.99. iPad only.
15. Krita (Free, Cross-Platform)
Krita is a free painting program made by artists for artists. It has a customizable interface, nine brush engines, color controls, tablet support, and editing that doesn’t damage your work. Many people think it’s the best free alternative to Procreate, and it works on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android.
Cost: Free and open source.
16. Infinite Painter (Android & iOS)
Infinite Painter is made for sketching, painting, and illustration on mobile devices. It supports pressure sensitivity, tilt, and layers, but keeps things simple and easy to use. Many people see it as the closest Android alternative to Procreate.
Cost: One-time purchase of $9.99.
17. Clip Studio Paint
Clip Studio Paint is a professional digital art app that covers everything from drawing on your phone to making full animations. It’s the top choice for creating manga and comics.
Cost: From $0.99/month.
18. Other Notable Digital Art Apps
| App | Best For | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| ibis Paint X | Anime, manga, beginners | Free with in-app purchases |
| MediBang Paint | Comics, collaboration | Free |
| GIMP | Photo editing, digital art | Free, open source |
| Autodesk Sketchbook | Clean, fast sketching | Free |
19. Digital Color-by-Number Apps
If you like paint by numbers but want a digital version, apps like April and Paint by Number: Coloring Game give you the same guided experience on your phone or tablet. April can make your art look like real oil paintings and is meant to be relaxing and enjoyable. These digital apps let you enjoy painting without any mess, while still helping you relax and feel creative.
Who it suits: Commuters, travelers, or anyone who wants to enjoy paint-by-numbers on the go without physical materials.
Common drawbacks: Some apps have excessive ads or subscription-based models that can interrupt the experience.
20. Mixed Media Art
Mixed media art is a fun way to use different materials and techniques together. For example, you can layer acrylic paint with collage pieces, draw with ink over watercolor, or add texture using modeling paste.
Who it suits: Experienced crafters looking to break all the rules and create truly one-of-a-kind artwork.
21. Fabric Painting and Textile Art
Fabric painting lets you decorate clothes, tote bags, pillows, and more. With fabric paints or markers, you can turn plain fabric into your own unique, wearable art.
Who it suits: Those who want functional, usable art rather than wall-hanging pieces.
22. AI-Assisted Art Creation
AI art platforms are the most high-tech option. Tools like MyPrint ai can turn your photos into over 100 different artworks. You can use AI as a starting point to edit or as inspiration for your own art projects.
Who it suits: Tech-savvy creators interested in the intersection of art and artificial intelligence, or those who want art without any manual skill requirement.
How to Choose the Right Alternative for You
| Alternative | Skill Level | Mess Level | Cost | Time Investment | Creative Freedom |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond Painting | Beginner | Low | $–$$ | 15–30 hrs | Low-Medium |
| Cross Stitch | Beginner | Low | $–$$ | 20–40 hrs | Low-Medium |
| Adult Coloring Books | Beginner | None | $ | Variable | High |
| DIY Paint Kits | Beginner | Medium | $$ | 10–20 hrs | Medium-High |
| Watercolor Painting | Intermediate | Medium | $$ | Ongoing | High |
| Acrylic Pouring | Beginner | High | $$ | 1–3 hrs/session | High |
| Digital Art (Procreate) | All levels | None | $$–$$$ | Ongoing | Maximum |
| Digital Art (Krita) | All levels | None | Free | Ongoing | Maximum |
| Mosaic Kits | Beginner | Medium | $$ | 15–25 hrs | Medium |
| Embroidery | Beginner-Intermediate | Low | $–$$ | 15–30 hrs | High |
| AI Art | Beginner | None | Free–$$ | Minutes | Varies |
FAQ: Common Questions About Paint by Numbers Alternatives
Q: What is the cheapest alternative to paint by numbers?
A: Adult coloring books and free digital art apps like Krita, MediBang Paint, and GIMP are the most budget-friendly options. A coloring book and a set of pencils can cost as little as $10, while free apps offer professional-grade tools at zero cost.
Q: Which alternative is best for absolute beginners?
A: Diamond painting requires virtually no learning curve—if you can pick up and place a gem, you can diamond paint. Adult coloring books are equally accessible. Both are more forgiving than paint by numbers in terms of "messing up."
Q: How can I start learning digital art?
A: Download Krita (free on all platforms) or Procreate (iPad) and begin with beginner tutorials on YouTube. Start with simple exercises like drawing shapes and experimenting with brushes before tackling full illustrations.
Q: Do any alternatives offer custom photo-to-art options like paint by numbers?
A: Yes. Many diamond painting companies offer custom kits from personal photos, though the pixel size of resin drills can blur fine facial features unless the canvas is quite large. AI platforms like MyPrint.ai can also turn photos into artworks. Paint by numbers preserves detail more effectively for custom photo projects.
Q: Are digital alternatives as relaxing as physical crafts?
A: For many people, yes. The key difference is screen time. If you're looking for a screen-free hobby, stick with hands-on crafts like diamond painting, cross stitch, or coloring books.
Key Takeaways: Finding Your Perfect Creative Outlet
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For meditative precision with zero mess: Diamond painting delivers a puzzle-like, hypnotic experience with a dazzling, sparkling end result.
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For maximum creative freedom at minimal cost: Adult coloring books and free digital apps like Krita offer boundless room for personal expression.
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For traditional painting with guidance: DIY paint kits bridge the gap between structured kits and freehand art.
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For professional-quality digital art: Procreate (iOS, $12.99) or Krita (all platforms, free) provide full creative toolkits.
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For a textile-based alternative: Cross stitch and embroidery offer timeless, screen-free crafting.
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For instant, no-skill digital art: AI-assisted platforms transform photos and ideas into artwork in minutes.
The best choice is the one that fits your creative style, needs, and goals. Whether you love the shine of diamond painting or want to try digital art, there are many options beyond paint by numbers for you to discover.
