Color by number with markers: why markers and not paint
With Stitchi Studio's paint by number, you fill in the numbered sections with numbered markers instead of paint – it's cleaner, has no drying time, and you can pause at any moment, without needing any brush technique knowledge. That's precisely what makes it so pleasant to do at the kitchen table: no water, no palette, no mess. Want to see what's possible? Check out the Paint by Number collection or let us convert your own photo into a Your Photo – Paint by Number canvas.
In short
- Clean work: no water, no palette, no spilled paint – just markers with caps.
- No drying time: you continue right next to a colored section, without waiting or smudging.
- Pausable: cap on and you're done; tomorrow you pick it up exactly where you left off.
- No brush skills needed: markers glide on their own, no need to dose or mix paint.
- Paint retains strong texture: acrylic paint provides relief and coverage – markers are admittedly less good at that.
- Choose your detail level: collection sets in 24, 36, or 48 colors. More colors = more detail and smoother transitions.
How do numbered markers work?
The idea is simple, and that's precisely its charm. You receive a pre-printed canvas where the design is divided into small sections, each with a number. The set includes markers that bear the same number. Section with a 7? Then you pick up the marker with a 7 and neatly color in that section. You don't have to choose anything, mix anything, or measure anything – the canvas tells you exactly which color goes where.
Because the colors are already pre-selected for you, the final result is essentially determined before you even start. You just provide the calm and the rhythm: section by section, color by color. Many people prefer to work by color (all 7s first, then all 8s) or from top to bottom, so you don't drag your hand over freshly colored sections. There's no right or wrong order – whatever relaxes you is good.
Want to know step-by-step how to start? In our beginner's guide, we walk you through the entire process calmly.
Why markers instead of paint?
The classic variant – painting by numbers with acrylic paint – is beautiful but requires a setup: paint pots, a brush, water for rinsing, a cloth, and a place where spills don't matter. Markers remove all those barriers. You grab the canvas, you grab the markers, and you start. Finished coloring for today? Cap on and put it away – no brushes drying out, no paint thickening.
| Color by Number (markers) | Paint by Number (paint) | |
|---|---|---|
| Setup & cleanup | Start immediately, cap on afterward | Prepare and clean paint, brush, water, and cloth |
| Drying time | No waiting time, continue immediately | Allow to dry between adjacent sections |
| Pausing | Any moment, without consequences | Possible, but brush and palette must be clean |
| Technique | No experience needed, markers glide easily | Dosing paint and staying within the lines requires practice |
| Workspace | Kitchen table, couch, train – no protection needed | Protected surface and water pot are useful |
| Finish | Even, graphic, and neat | Visible brushstrokes and texture |
In short: markers win on ease, speed, and cleanliness. This also makes it a great hobby if you don't feel like a whole ritual but just want to clear your head. Why it's so soothing is explained in why coloring by number is so relaxing.
When does paint have advantages?
Fair enough: paint can do things that markers can't, and you should know that. Acrylic paint builds up a physical texture – you see and feel the brushstrokes, which gives a canvas a real, painterly look. Paint is also stronger in coverage: you can layer colors and completely fill a section. And for those who like to experiment, paint can be mixed to create custom colors.
Markers, on the other hand, give an even, neat, and graphic finish without texture. For some, that's precisely the appeal (clean and modern), while for others, it lacks that painterly quality. There's no winner – it depends on which result and process suit you best. Want to see the two methods side-by-side? Then read color by number or paint by number: the difference.
What do 24, 36, and 48 colors mean?
With our collection sets, you choose how many colors your set contains. That number determines how finely detailed the design is: more colors mean more, smaller sections and smoother transitions – and thus more detail in the final result.
| Number of colors | Name | For whom |
|---|---|---|
| 24 colors | Essential | Beginner-friendly: larger sections, quicker to finish, very relaxing |
| 36 colors | Detailed | The golden mean between pace and detail |
| 48 colors | Premium | The most refined: subtle shades and the most beautiful transitions |
Undecided? Feel free to start with 24 colors if you've never colored by number before; it remains relaxing, and your result will still be beautiful. Looking for a challenge or do you love lots of detail? Go for 48. Handy detail: every collection set contains two canvases that share the same color palette, so with one set of markers, you can create two matching paintings – ideal as a diptych above the sofa. You can read more about this in the set of 2 canvases: which theme suits you.
Please note: for personalized Your Photo – Color by Number, you don't choose the number of colors. We match the required number of markers to your photo and include them completely.
Who are markers ideal for?
Markers are ideal if you want to start without fuss and do it quietly at the table – with children nearby, between chores, or as an evening ritual on the couch. Even if you've never painted before, this is a nice, accessible start because no technique is involved. And because it's so easy to pause, it fits into a busy life: five minutes or two hours, anything goes.
Collection sets start from €59.95 for a set of two canvases, and the personalized Your Photo variant from €50.95. Shipping is free, worldwide, and with no minimum amount. Want to know how much time you'll invest before you start? Then check out how long coloring by number takes.
Frequently asked questions
Why markers instead of paint for coloring by number?
Markers are cleaner and faster: no water, no palette, and no drying time. You start immediately, can pause at any moment by putting the cap on, and don't need any brush technique. Paint has its own strengths (texture and coverage), but markers are much more accessible for casual use at the kitchen table.
Do the markers smudge or bleed on the canvas?
No, you work dry. No water or liquid paint is involved, so nothing will run or bleed from your canvas. Put the cap on and put it away without worry, even halfway through.
Can I really start without experience?
Yes. You don't need to be able to draw or paint. The canvas tells you with numbers exactly which color goes where, and the markers glide easily. You just need to stay within the lines – and that's easier to do than with a brush.
What is the difference between 24, 36, and 48 colors?
The number of colors determines the level of detail in your design. 24 colors (Essential) is beginner-friendly with larger sections, 36 (Detailed) is the middle ground, and 48 (Premium) provides the most refinement and the most beautiful transitions. This choice applies to the collection sets; for Your Photo, we include the appropriate markers as standard.
When would I prefer paint instead?
If you specifically like the visible brushstrokes and texture of acrylic paint, or enjoy mixing colors yourself, then painting by number suits you better. If you prefer a neat, even, and clean finish without hassle, then markers are the better choice.
Are the markers included in the package?
Yes. Every set and the Your Photo canvas include the numbered markers, matched to the design. So you don't need to buy anything extra to get started.