Exploring the Art of Colour by Numbers: An Engaging and Rewarding Journey for Beginners and Avid Artists

A Deep Dive into Colour by Numbers: What is it and Why is it So Popular?

Remember the countless hours you spent colouring as a child, meticulously filling in every outlined pictures with vibrant hues, bringing them to life? If the answer is a resounding 'yes,' it's time to rekindle those good times with colour by numbers - the adult version of your childhood colouring books. Let’s explore the world of colour by numbers, from its captivating concept to its soaring popularity.

Colour by Numbers: Simplifying the Art of Colouring

Colour by numbers is a fun and easy way to engage yourself into the world of art, regardless of your skill level. In a colour-by-numbers puzzle, a design is divided into numerous small segments, each marked by a number. This number corresponds to a specific colour. Your task is to fill up every numbered area with its corresponding colour, a process that brings the art to life and unveils a stunning visual treat.

History of Colour by Numbers

Like many great things, colour by numbers also originated out of a practical need. Leonardo da Vinci, the legendary polymath, used a similar technique to instruct his apprentices. It was a method of numbering various sections of his artworks and providing his students with corresponding colours to replicate his paintings. The modern-day concept of colour by numbers was popularised in the 1950s when a Michigan-based company, Palmer Paint, introduced ready-to-use colour by numbers kits.

Benefits of Colour by Numbers

Fun and relaxation aside, colour by numbers has a plethora of benefits:

Stress Relief

In a fast-paced world, where we are constantly bombarded with information, colour by numbers provides an opportunity to relax, unwind, and de-stress in a creative way.

Boosts Concentration and Patience

Colour by numbers requires attention to detail and patience, leading to improved concentration, patience, and respect for an incremental process.

Unleashes Creativity

While colour by numbers may seem like a simple follow-the-instructions activity, it can spark creativity and the joy of playing with colours.

Enhances Motor Skills

Colouring within the lines improves hand-eye coordination and develops fine motor skills, beneficial for individuals of all ages.

Finding the Perfect Colour by Numbers Kit: Things to Consider

Excited to kick start your colour by numbers journey? Here are a few things to consider when selecting the perfect kit:

The Design

Select a design that appeals to you. The beauty of colour by numbers lies in the rich diversity of designs available. From intricate landscapes, vibrant animals, serene portraits to enigmatic abstractions, there's something for everyone.

Difficulty Level

If you're a newbie, you might want to start with beginner-level designs with larger areas and fewer shades. Gradually, you can opt for more intricate designs with a wider colour palette.

Kit Contents

A standard colour by numbers kit should include a printed canvas with numbered sections, paint pots corresponding to the numbers, and a set of brushes of varying sizes. Ensure the kit you choose contains these essentials.

Quality of Materials

Ponder over the quality of materials. The paints should be non-toxic, easy to mix, and offer good coverage. The canvas quality should be top-notch to ensure a pleasant colouring experience.

Support Tools

Many modern kits complement physical kits with digital copies, helpful instructions, and customer support. This can be greatly beneficial, especially for beginners.

Maximising Your Colour by Numbers Experience

While you're invited to enjoy your colour by numbers journey your own way, here are a few tips to optimise your experience:

Prep Your Workspace

Clear a space, protect it with an old tablecloth or newspaper, and organise your paints and brushes before starting.

Start from the Top

To avoid smudging, it's advisable to start from the top of your canvas if you're right-handed, and vice versa if you're left-handed.

Close the Paint Pots

Remember to close the paint pots when not in use to prevent the paints from drying out.

Enjoy the Process

Lastly, remember that it's not a race. Enjoy the scene, appearing stroke by stroke, colour by colour, while surrendering to the calming rhythm of your brush against the canvas.

Conclusion: Rediscover the Joy of Colouring

Whether you're a creative enthusiast, a hobbyist, or someone looking to unwind after a long day, colour by numbers offers an easy, relaxing, and rewarding escape from the daily hustle and bustle. You end up not only with an artistic masterpiece but also a pleasant sense of accomplishment. So why wait? Dive into the captivating world of colour by numbers and let the colours flow!