Watercolor paint by numbers or acrylic? Which is better?

Watercolor paint by numbers - what does it mean?

Choosing between watercolor and acrylic paint by numbers kits depends on your preferences, skill level, and the kind of painting experience you're looking for. Both offer enjoyable and creative ways to paint without prior experience, but the results—and the process—can be quite different.

Watercolor Paint by Numbers – Soft, Delicate, and Relaxing

Watercolor paint by numbers kits use water-based, translucent pigments that are ideal for beginners, kids, and anyone who prefers a gentle, flowing painting style. These kits often feature floral themes, mandalas, or dreamy abstract designs. They encourage experimentation with gradients and soft blends, giving each painting a light, airy finish.

Watercolors are more forgiving when it comes to mistakes—colors can be diluted, lifted, or blended out. However, covering printed lines and numbers is more challenging with watercolors, since they lack opacity. A white marker can help mask them if needed.

If you're looking for a calm, meditative art activity without bold colors or hard edges, watercolor paint by numbers is a beautiful option. They're perfect for relaxed Sunday afternoons or low-pressure painting moments.

Acrylic Paint by Numbers – Bold, Easy, and Vibrant

Acrylic paint by numbers kits are the most common type available—and for good reason. Acrylics are bright, opaque, and fast-drying. They’re ideal for people who want vivid colors and the ability to layer over mistakes. With acrylic paint, your finished piece will often have sharper edges, more contrast, and a polished finish.

Acrylics are easy to work with, dry fast, and let you correct mistakes as you go—great for first-time painters and those who enjoy a more polished finish.

 Each of our acrylic paint by numbers kits includes everything you need: a numbered canvas, paint pots, and brushes. Plus, our Paint by Numbers Tips guide helps you get the best results from your kit.

Unlike watercolor kits—which are harder to find and limited in variety—our acrylic collections span from landscapes to famous artwork reproductions, giving you more options to choose from.

Watercolor vs Acrylic: Which Should You Choose?

If you’re just starting out, acrylic kits are often the better choice—they’re easier to use, more forgiving, and come in a wide range of themes. But if you’re looking for a quieter, softer experience, watercolor kits offer a peaceful and artistic escape.

What’s Inside Our Paint by Number Kits?

Each of our kits comes with everything you need to complete your artwork:

• Pre-printed canvas (optionally stretched for a ready-to-hang result)

• Acrylic paint pots that stay usable for up to a year without drying out

• A fine point brush and additional sizes for various details

• Numbered outline for guided painting

We use real artist canvas instead of paper to give you a satisfying painting experience and professional-looking results. With vivid colors, clear details, and a range of skill levels, our kits are built for hobbyists who want more than just a quick project.

Who Should Choose Watercolor vs Acrylic?

Watercolor paint by numbers kits are perfect for:

• Kids or beginners looking for a gentle entry into painting

• Adults who want a relaxing, meditative art session

• People who enjoy transparent effects and soft color washes

Acrylic kits are ideal if you:

• Want strong, vibrant colors with full coverage

• Like faster results with quick-drying paint

• Prefer sharp lines and a more "complete" professional look

• Enjoy experimenting with layering or mixing colors

If you're gifting someone a paint kit, watercolor options are often a thoughtful choice for family members or friends who enjoy slow, creative hobbies. Acrylic sets make a great gift too—especially for beginners, since they’re easy to use and come in a huge variety of designs.

You can also explore other designs in both styles. Our number kits include everything needed for a fun way to create and finish a beautiful wall-ready artwork. Whether you're buying for yourself or a loved one, it's a gift that brings joy and creativity.

Bonus Tips for Choosing the Right Kit

• If you're looking for beautiful color variety, acrylic kits typically offer a broader range of shades and bold tones.

• Watercolor kits are great if you enjoy soft blends and working with water, while acrylics are better if you like defined shapes and faster drying.

• Our kits are designed for both beginners and experienced hobbyists. If you're new, look for options marked "easy" or browse our curated beginner collection.

• Many of our customers purchase kits as gifts—for birthdays, holidays, or just to share a creative moment with family or friends. The joy of painting is even better when shared.

• Don’t forget to check customer reviews on each product page to hear what others say before you pick the perfect kit.

Final Thoughts

Watercolor paint by numbers offers a calm, delicate approach to painting, while acrylic paint by numbers gives you bold results and more control. Whichever you choose, both open the door to creativity and self-expression.

Ready to begin? Explore our full range of paint by numbers kits and start your next painting adventure today.