A paint-by-numbers canvas mid-progress, with paints and brushes laid out for an evening painting session.
Paint by numbers isn’t just a nostalgic craft-store item anymore. The global market for these kits hit roughly $1.67 billion in 2025 and is projected to keep growing at a 7.1% CAGR through 2034, according to Growth Market Reports. Adults are driving that growth – a 2025 Craft & Hobby Association survey found 67% of Gen Z adults picked up a new hands-on hobby in the past year, up from 42% in 2022. Part of the appeal is stress relief: a small Drexel University study found measurable drops in cortisol after a single art session. Here are the six best places to buy a paint-by-numbers kit for adults right now.
1. NumberArtist
NumberArtist website
NumberArtist tops this list for sheer range and reliability. Its collection of high quality paint by numbers for adults spans more than 2,223 artist-designed patterns, from geometric abstracts to detailed wildlife portraits. Every kit ships with premium acrylic paints and a pre-stretched canvas, so there’s no framing hassle once you’re done. NumberArtist has served over 450,000 customers and backs every order with a 30-day guarantee, which matters if a bottle arrives dry. For adults who want options without wading through a thin catalog, this is the easiest starting point.
2. Winnie’s Picks
Winnie’s Picks website
Winnie’s Picks offers a smaller but distinct catalog, over 200 adult-oriented designs created by US-based artists rather than pulled from licensed stock art. That gives its patterns a slightly more original feel. The brand has served more than 60,000 painters and ships most US orders within three days, handy if you’re buying a last-minute gift.
3. Pink Picasso
Pink Picasso website
Pink Picasso has picked up real media attention, with features on Shark Tank, Oprah’s Favorite Things, Good Morning America, and the Today Show. Its kits use premium linen canvas rather than the thinner cotton blends some brands rely on, and it offers a custom photo-to-kit option for painting your own pet.
4. Canvas by Numbers
Canvas by Numbers website
Canvas by Numbers has built its reputation on scale and reach. The brand has served over 200,000 customers and ships to more than 35 countries, more international coverage than most competitors here offer. Its designs come from licensed artist partnerships rather than generic stock patterns, and orders ship from US warehouses with free returns.
5. CraftLab
CraftLab website
CraftLab stands out for its mission-driven angle. Its Wild Birds series donates 10% of profits to The Nature Conservancy, so buying a kit funds actual habitat work, not just marketing copy. Each kit comes with 24 acrylic colors and a ready-to-hang stretched canvas.
6. BAISITE
BAISITE website
BAISITE doesn’t run its own standalone site – it sells primarily through Amazon, which keeps overhead and prices low. Its kits include roughly 30% extra paint for colors people run out of first, usually white and black, so you’re less likely to hit a wall mid-project. It’s a solid pick for beginners who don’t want to commit to a premium price tag yet, or who just want to try the hobby out before investing in a higher-end brand.
What to Look For in a Paint by Numbers Kit for Adults
The prettiest design isn’t always the most enjoyable one to paint. Before ordering, consider these factors:
- Design complexity. Large sections and fewer colors are easier for beginners, while detailed portraits require more patience. A beginner’s guide can help you choose the right difficulty level.
- Kit contents. Look for numbered canvases, acrylic paints, brushes, and a reference image. Check whether framing materials are included.
- Paint and brush quality. Read customer reviews to see whether the paint provides good coverage and the brushes can handle fine details. Proper brush care also helps your supplies last longer.
- Available space. Choose a canvas that fits your workspace. If you’re planning a larger project, declutter your crafting area first to make room for your supplies.
Finally, compare the total cost, including shipping, framing, and any extra supplies. A more expensive kit that includes everything you need may actually offer better value.
Before you order, it’s also worth learning a few basics about painting with acrylics so you know what to expect from your first kit. A little preparation can make the painting process smoother and the finished piece more rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Whichever brand you go with, paint by numbers remains one of the cheapest, most accessible ways to unwind without staring at a screen. NumberArtist’s catalog size and 30-day guarantee make it the easiest starting point for a first kit, though Pink Picasso’s linen canvases or CraftLab’s conservation angle are worth a look too. Once you’re hooked, there’s no reason to stop at canvas – try easy upcycling projects around the house to keep the creative momentum going.