How Long Does Color by Numbers Take? A Realistic Time Guide
Color by numbers takes roughly 5 to 38 hours per canvas, spread across several relaxed sessions — exactly how long depends on the size and the number of colors (up to 20, 30 or 40). A small canvas with up to 20 colors is something you finish over a few cozy evenings; a large canvas with up to 40 colors is a lovely project for a few weeks. In this guide we share realistic time ranges by size, so you know what you're getting into before you start. Ready to pick a design? Browse the Color by Numbers collection.
Quick facts
- Small (30×40 cm): expect about 5–14 hours, depending on the number of colors.
- Medium (40×50 to 50×60 cm): about 7–26 hours.
- Large (50×70 to 60×80 cm): about 12–38 hours.
- More colors = more time: up to 40 colors takes roughly one and a half times as long as up to 20.
- A set = two canvases: so count on roughly double the time.
- Much faster than cross-stitch — and just as relaxing.
Keep in mind: these are estimates, not exact promises. Everyone colors at their own pace, and that's exactly the point.
What determines how long it takes?
Color by numbers isn't a race. Still, it helps to have an idea up front — maybe you're giving it as a gift, or looking for a calm project for the darker months. Four things together decide how long you'll be busy:
- The size. More canvas surface simply means more areas to fill in. This is the biggest factor.
- The number of colors. With up to 40 colors (Premium) the areas are smaller and the transitions finer, so you switch markers more often and color more detail. With up to 20 colors (Essential) you work with larger areas and make quicker progress.
- The design. A calm landscape with big sky and water areas goes faster than a busy field of flowers or a portrait full of small details.
- Your pace. Some people color straight through with focus; others deliberately take it slow with a cup of tea. Both are perfectly fine.
How long does color by numbers take by size?
Below is a realistic range in hours per canvas, by size and by color count. Treat it as a rough estimate for an average pace — not a deadline. If you work slowly and take breaks, you'll often land near the top of the range; if you power through, closer to the bottom.
| Size | Up to 20 colors (Essential) | Up to 30 colors (Detailed) | Up to 40 colors (Premium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30×40 cm | ~ 5–8 hrs | ~ 7–11 hrs | ~ 9–14 hrs |
| 40×40 cm | ~ 6–9 hrs | ~ 8–13 hrs | ~ 11–16 hrs |
| 40×50 cm | ~ 7–11 hrs | ~ 10–15 hrs | ~ 13–19 hrs |
| 40×60 cm | ~ 9–13 hrs | ~ 12–18 hrs | ~ 15–22 hrs |
| 50×50 cm | ~ 9–13 hrs | ~ 12–18 hrs | ~ 15–22 hrs |
| 50×60 cm | ~ 10–15 hrs | ~ 14–20 hrs | ~ 18–26 hrs |
| 50×70 cm | ~ 12–18 hrs | ~ 16–24 hrs | ~ 21–30 hrs |
| 60×80 cm | ~ 15–22 hrs | ~ 20–30 hrs | ~ 26–38 hrs |
Prefer to think in evenings? A relaxed session of around two hours works well for most people. A 40×50 cm canvas with up to 30 colors then takes roughly five to eight evenings — perfect to spread across a week or two.
Does up to 20, 30 or 40 colors make a big difference?
Yes — the number of colors decides not just the level of detail, but also the time. In short:
- Up to 20 colors (Essential): larger areas, finished sooner, ideal for a first try or for kids coloring along. See also our beginner's guide.
- Up to 30 colors (Detailed): the sweet spot — lovely detail without it becoming endless.
- Up to 40 colors (Premium): the finest transitions and the richest result, but also the most work. For anyone who wants to enjoy it for longer.
Because you work with numbered markers instead of paint, you lose no time to drying, cleaning brushes or mixing. Why that matters is explained in color by numbers with markers.
What about a set of two canvases?
Our collection sets contain two designs that share the same color palette, such as Mediterranean Summer. For time, that means: count on roughly double the range above, since you're coloring two canvases. The nice part is that one marker set makes two matching paintings — perfect to hang together above the sofa as a diptych. How to pick a matching duo is covered in our guide to two-canvas sets. Sets start at €59.95, with free shipping.
And with your own photo?
With Custom Photo – Color by Numbers we turn your own photo into a single canvas, including the matching numbered markers. For time, simply use the row in the table that matches your chosen size. A portrait or photo with lots of detail usually lands near the top of the range. Not sure whether your photo works? First check which photo works for color by numbers.
Color by numbers vs. cross-stitch: how big is the time difference?
Color by numbers is considerably faster than cross-stitch. With cross-stitch you make every stitch individually with needle and thread, so a comparable size can easily take dozens to well over a hundred hours. With color by numbers you fill entire areas in one go with a marker, so you watch your artwork grow much faster. Want the cross-stitch side of the story? Read how long cross-stitch takes. Both hobbies are wonderfully meditative; if you prefer pace and a large finished result, color by numbers is the quicker route. For a full comparison, see color by numbers vs. cross-stitch.
Tips to enjoy it longer (or wrap up sooner)
- Work top to bottom and left to right, so you don't rub over your hand or freshly colored areas.
- Color by number. Pick one marker and fill in every area with that number before you switch — it saves time and keeps things tidy.
- Get good light. In daylight or under a bright lamp you'll read the small numbers more easily and work faster.
- Take the time that feels right for you. Want to unwind? Deliberately keep your sessions short. The hobby is meant to be enjoyed, not rushed.
Frequently asked questions
How long does one color-by-numbers canvas take on average?
On average you'll spend about 5 to 38 hours per canvas, depending on size and the number of colors. A small 30×40 cm canvas with up to 20 colors takes roughly 5 to 8 hours; a large 60×80 cm canvas with up to 40 colors can run up to 30 to 38 hours. These are estimates for an average pace.
Does coloring with up to 40 colors really take longer than with up to 20?
Yes. With up to 40 colors the areas are smaller and the transitions finer, so you color more detail and switch markers more often. Count on roughly one and a half times as long as with up to 20 colors, but the result is more refined too.
How many evenings do I need?
With relaxed sessions of around two hours, an average 40×50 cm canvas with up to 30 colors takes roughly five to eight evenings. Larger canvases or more colors call for a few more evenings.
How long does a set of two canvases take?
Count on roughly double a single canvas, since a set contains two designs. You color them with the same marker set, so there's nothing extra to buy.
Is color by numbers faster than cross-stitch?
Yes, clearly. With color by numbers you fill areas in one go with a marker, whereas cross-stitch means making each stitch separately. A comparable cross-stitch piece can easily take dozens to well over a hundred hours, while color by numbers is usually done within a handful to a few dozen hours.
Can I stop partway and continue later?
Absolutely. You work with dry markers, no paint or water, so you simply set the canvas aside and pick it up again later. Ideal for spreading across several evenings or weekends.