Tips & Inspiration

Paint by numbers generally takes around 5 to 38 hours per canvas, spread across several relaxed sessions — how long exactly depends on the format and the number of colors (24, 36, or 48). You can complete a small canvas with 24 colors in a few cozy evenings; a large canvas with 48 colors is a wonderful project for a few weeks. In this guide, you'll find realistic timeframes per size, so you know what to expect beforehand. By the way, with our sets, you paint with numbered pens instead of paint. Fancy picking out a design straight away? Then take a look at the Paint by Numbers Collection.

At a Glance

• Small (30×40 cm): expect about 5–14 hours, depending on the number of colors.
• Medium (40×50 to 50×60 cm): approximately 7–26 hours.
• Large (50×70 to 60×80 cm): approximately 12–38 hours.
• More colors = more time: 48 colors take about one and a half times as long as 24.
• One set = two canvases: so expect about double the time.
• Significantly faster than cross-stitch — and at least as relaxing.

Important: These are estimates, not exact promises. Everyone paints at their own pace, and that's precisely the point.

What Determines the Duration?

Paint by numbers is not a race. Still, it's nice to have an idea beforehand — for example, if you want to give it as a gift or are looking for a calm project for the darker months. Four things together determine how long you'll be busy:

• The format. More canvas area simply means more fields to color in. This is the biggest factor.
• The number of colors. With 48 colors (Premium), the fields are smaller and the transitions finer, so you'll switch pens more often and paint more details. With 24 colors (Essential), you work with larger fields and progress faster.
• The motif. A serene landscape with large areas of sky and water goes faster than a lush flower field or a portrait full of small details.
• Your pace. One person paints with intense focus, another consciously takes their time with a cup of tea. Both are perfectly fine.

How Long Does Paint by Numbers Take per Format?

Below, you'll find a realistic range in hours per canvas, by size and number of colors. See it as a rough estimate for an average pace — not a deadline. Those who work relaxed and with breaks often end up at the higher end; those who power through, at the lower end.

Do you prefer to count in evenings? A relaxed session of about two hours is comfortable for most people. A 40×50 cm canvas with 36 colors can then be completed in roughly five to eight evenings — ideal for spreading it out over one to two weeks.

Do 24, 36, or 48 Colors Make a Big Difference?

Yes — the number of colors determines not only the level of detail but also the time. In short:

• 24 Colors (Essential): larger fields, finished faster, ideal for a first attempt or for children to participate. See also our beginner's guide.
• 36 Colors (Detailed): the golden mean — beautiful detail without becoming endless.
• 48 Colors (Premium): the finest transitions and richest result, but also the most work. For those who want to enjoy it longer.

Because you work with numbered pens instead of paint, you don't lose time due to drying, washing brushes, or mixing. To understand why this makes a difference, read Paint by Numbers with Pens.

And a Set of Two Canvases?

Our collection sets include two motifs that share the same color palette, for example, Mediterranean Summer. For the time, this means: expect about double the range above, as you'll be painting two canvases. The great thing is: with one set of pens, you create two matching pictures — perfect for hanging them as a diptych together above the sofa. You can read how to choose a suitable duo in our guide to 2-piece sets. Sets are available from €59.95, with free shipping.

And for Your Own Photo?

With Your Own Photo – Paint by Numbers, we turn your own photo into a single canvas, including the matching numbered pens. For the time, simply use the row from the table that matches your chosen format. A portrait or a photo with many details usually falls at the upper end of the range. Unsure if your photo is suitable? Then first check which photo is suitable for paint by numbers.

Paint by Numbers vs. Cross-Stitch: How Big is the Time Difference?

Paint by numbers is significantly faster than cross-stitch. With cross-stitch, you make each stitch individually with needle and thread, so a comparable format can easily take several dozens to well over a hundred hours. With paint by numbers, you fill entire fields in one go with a pen, so you see your picture grow much faster. Want to know the cross-stitch side exactly? Then read how long cross-stitch takes. Both hobbies are wonderfully meditative; if you prefer speed and a great result, paint by numbers is the faster way. You can find a detailed comparison in Paint by Numbers vs. Cross-Stitch.

Tips to Enjoy Longer (or Shorter)

• Work from top to bottom and left to right, so you don't smudge freshly painted fields.
• Paint by number. Pick a pen and fill all fields with that number before switching — this saves time and keeps track.
• Ensure good lighting. In daylight or with a bright lamp, you'll recognize the small numbers better and work faster.
• Take the time that feels good to you. Want to slow down? Then keep your sessions intentionally short. The hobby should bring joy, not haste.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a paint by numbers canvas take on average?

On average, you'll be busy for about 5 to 38 hours per canvas, depending on the format and number of colors. A small 30×40 cm canvas with 24 colors takes roughly 5 to 8 hours; a large 60×80 cm canvas with 48 colors can take up to 30 to 38 hours. These are estimates for an average pace.

Does painting with 48 colors really take longer than with 24?

Yes. With 48 colors, the fields are smaller and the transitions finer, so you paint more details and switch pens more often. Expect it to take about one and a half times as long as with 24 colors, but the result is also finer.

How many evenings do I need?

With relaxed sessions of about two hours, you can complete an average 40×50 cm canvas with 36 colors in roughly five to eight evenings. Larger canvases or more colors will require a few more evenings.

How long does a set of two canvases take?

Expect about double the time of a single canvas, as a set contains two motifs. You paint them with the same set of pens, so you don't need to buy anything extra.

Is paint by numbers faster than cross-stitch?

Yes, significantly. With paint by numbers, you fill fields in one go with a pen, while with cross-stitch, you make each stitch individually. A comparable cross-stitch project can easily take several dozens to well over a hundred hours, while paint by numbers is usually finished in a few to a few dozen hours.

Can I stop in between and continue later?

Absolutely. You work with dry pens, without paint or water, so you simply set the canvas aside and pick it up again later. Ideal for spreading it out over several evenings or weekends.