Jazmine Shaffer your comment just made my day!! Thank you so much for that wonderfully positive feedback. I seriously hope I’m giving viewers the kind of information I’m looking for when I search for something as a consumer. What a blessing you watching and leaving my that comment was for my spirit today! 🥰
Melanie B’s Creative Studio just an idea buy a gloss or mate medium to finish the painting, Liquitex has one that is a gloss medium and varnish combined . I am an artist so can highly recommend it to finish any painting. Also after you put the medium on you can put a coat of varnish, I loved your tutorial .
I started my 1st PBN project today. I think I'm going to purchase the Liquitex flow aid, the paint was a little chunky...and I am afraid that I'm going to run out of paint. Thank you for posting and sharing with us! Happy New Year.
@@christapaul5545 I started my first PBN today & I was already stressed bc the paint was chunky & I wasn’t sure how many drops of water to add. I kept saying “no painting outside the lines,” and I did😩. Fortunately, I remember the 1st video to do the dark colors first. Before using the 2nd color, I put a couple of drops of water (I’m waiting for the flow aide, grosso & better brushes). I noticed that the drops of water helped make the paint creamy.
PLEASE NOTE: This video was originally uploaded with music that was copyright free. Then the creator decided to make a copyright violation against my video anyway, and I had to change the music. Once I did that, the audio now overpowers my instructions on the last half, so I am going to be re-recording and updating this video with a new version as soon as possible. I deeply apologize for this inconvenience, but I appreciate your understanding and continuing to like this video in the meantime! 🥰❤️
@@josephborder5055 thank you ❤️! I’ve been making extensive notes about the new content I want to include since this video was made. I’ve even designed custom products to help the PBN community, since I first started paint by numbers, because I am so adamant about making this hobby as frustration-free as possible. Of course, I don’t ever want anyone to think that they have to buy the products that I’ve invented in order to complete a paint by number, but I definitely want to give everyone all of the options that are now available since the time that this video was recorded. ☺️ You don’t know how much I appreciate your feedback on this original video! 🥰❤️
I’m glad I watched this first! Just bought my first paint my number. Now off to the craft store to get gesso, floaid, a white sharpie, and better brushes! I’ve taped my canvas down with painters tape and can’t wait to start! I was going to tape it down to the table but on a board you can move it away easily!
I’m glad you found me too! I’m sorry this video got screwed up recently, but please join my Facebook group where my members and I help others get the information they need to be successful in their PBN journey! 🥰 It’s a private group on FB called “Melanie B’s Creative Studio”… I’m not sure CZcams will let me add the link, but that information is in the description below the video for you. Hope to see you there, if you’re not already!
Thank you for your videos. I purchased my first PBN on a whim and have been overthinking how to start. This video is the best tutorial that I have seen.
Thank you so much! I was heartbroken when the audio was ruined by the music, so I am planning a new, upgraded version of this for 2024. Please be watching for that video, because it will have lots of information that even more advanced PBN enthusiasts will find useful {I hope 😬}.
Ohhhh, I am so sorry about your loss. It is indescribable to anyone who hasn’t suffered through it. My heart goes out to you, and I believe everything happens for a reason...that’s why you found me. 🥰
I had a paint by number kit for my birth day this year and i'm 64, I'd love to be able to paint, did it as a kid but just getting back into now. I've watch about 12 of these paint by number video is week and this is the best one I've found so far. great work Melanie.
Thank you for saying that 🥰🥰🥰. My goal/dream is to become the leading “adviser” on CZcams for paint-by-numbers, diamond paintings and maybe a few other DIY projects 😉. I’m happy you found paint-by-numbers and me! 🥰
Your angel painting is beautiful... sorry for the loss of your son. Thank you for all the detailed information which will make my first attempt so much better!
Thanks for actually showing the paint consistency and the addition of Flow Aid. “Creamy” means different things to everyone but the demo makes it visually clear what texture you try for.
Thank you for that feedback! I actually recorded an entire video yesterday on which additives do what to the paint. I hope I included more visuals like you mentioned, because you are absolutely correct about the perception of consistency. Great tip!!
Wow! This video is exactly what I was looking for! I've started my first PBN and kept thinking that there has to be some tips out there to make this easier (I started with a very detailed print). The one thing I wish I had done was to take pictures of it before starting. And I agree many of the brushes I've tried have bristles that are too long. I just hope it doesn't look like crap after spending months working on it! LOL Thank you for the excellent tips.
I’m so thrilled for your feedback, especially after this video was ruined by the audio/music issues. 🥹 After years of brushes that were not made for paint by numbers, I designed my own sets of custom brushes. I couldn’t take it anymore, and I wanted to offer “frustration-free” products for my fellow PBN hobbyists. They sell out fast, but they are being manufactured right now. This isn’t a sales pitch 😂, but they do help with those pesky areas where long brushes just do not work! I’ll put a link in the description in case you want to take a look ☺️. Have fun with your painting adventures!!
Your video is my absolute favorite and so many helpful tips. I have painted a couple of paint by number and very quickly realized that I needed different and better paintbrushes but after watching your video I realize that I need to go back to the store and that I am not painting with the right brush. Also I realized on my own that I needed something to thin the paint because some were so thick, and bought some thinner but I am not sure if I bought the correct stuff. It does make me feel good that I realized some of these things on my own like getting my paining pre mounted onto a board before starting to paint is very helpful, but you have taken me to the next level. Thank you so much for your wonderful video
You are welcome! I had been doing PBNs for a while, and I was frustrated with the paints and brushes (especially). It took me a while to find the right tools, so I wanted to save others that time and money. I’m so glad you find these tips helpful! 🥰
I found this tutorial halfway through my mona lisa project and I can clearly see where I painted before watching and after, the difference is startling so thank you so much for putting this together and putting it out there! I've used most of your tips but the only problem I'm finding is cutting the bristles as any scissors I have must be dull cause it mostly bends the bristles but cuts a few so the brushes are very uneven. Also condolences on losing your boy, that angel is a beautiful tribute to him and your granddaughter.
Thank you so very much for your feedback & thoughtfulness! I’m so happy to know you’ve been helped by my videos. The brushes are a “booger” to cut, but it may be your scissors. I was probably using a sharp pair. Please be sure the join the Facebook group, so you can share your progress! ☺️
I may have a few tips if you are very careful. 〰🔥🕯✂🔧🖌🚿💧 It works for me, and I often need to do these few things because scissors are tricky to keep perfect for every time. And it's usually always another reason they decide to not work other than just being too dull. Maybe it will work for you, and that is using a lighter to sizzle away the super long and unruly hairs that are on the tips of your paint brushes. But....! .lol Make sure you do it very slowly. Holding the flame pretty far away at first and then moving the heat of the flame closer and closer to the tips of the brush hairs. I usually jerk the flame away quickly once hear it sizzling and/or if I see it starting to fizzle up or curl in on it's self. Keeping the brush tips really wet and pointed helps too, you'll be less likely to make the mistake of burning away more than you want to. The heat also helps set the brush tip nice and stiff and straight. Kind of like the heat from a blow dryer or a curling iron would set our own human hair in place. Another tip for cutting anything that is small and thin with dull scissors is usually using the base of the blades that are closes to your handle and not the tip or the middle part of the blades. Those are used the most, so those parts of the blades dull faster. Most of the time scissors won't cut because the blades are not screwed together as tightly as they once were, so things will just stay lightly clamped in-between the two blades. So0o yeah, just tighten the screw that holds the two blades together. It'll help, especially since the scissors need to slide by smoothly and not wobbly. Also making sure the blades are nice and clean so no particles get in and cause further spacing. Any separation between the scissors blades will make them seem useless. But they are still good. Just little tweaks here and there and your scissors will work much better for any moment. 🖼🎨🙂👍
Seriously the best PBN tutorial on CZcams. You deserve a million subs! 😀 I just started my first PBN, and it is literally driving me crazy. Totally using your tips from now on!!
YAY!! I love this kind of feedback! Thank you so much for watching! I have people who have asked “Is it really necessary to have “tips and tricks” for a Paint by number? I thought it was pretty self-explanatory”...I’m like, “Huh! You have no idea what is involved!” 😂😂😂 There is sooo much more to it than just painting the numbers.
Love! Love! Love! This video! Thank you! I sure wish I had seen this before I started. Firstly I have been an artist forever and I didn’t know there was clear gesso. That tip alone would have made my day. The tip to cover the number is a godsend. Never thought of that. I did use my smallest, sharpest craft knife to cut the numbers off, but that makes me really nervous, so really appreciate your tips to overcome the dreaded show through. Not to be a know-it-all but your descriptions of the paint brushes all wonderful, however when a number slash zero is used, the zero is called an “ought”. So the higher the number over the ought, the smaller the tip. A 20-ought will be smaller than a 10 or 12 ought. You are exactly right though in the descriptions of detail, spotter.... My tip is for you to keep the paint out of the ferrule to begin with because if you get paint in the ferrule and one molecule of that paint dries in there you have reduced the life of the brush. It has been so dry this year if I hold my brush to the air while searching for another number I am painting well......then I have to wash the bristles well before doing anything else. I have brushes older than I am, if you care for them properly they can last for ever! I forget what you called the liquid you added, but it comes as extender, retarder, glaze base, glaze...... but I totally agree if you get too much in the paint if you let it sit overnight it will be OK tomorrow. These-retarders dilute without reducing the pigment. If you use water to thin, you do reduce the pigment. I am so sorry you lost your son, absolutely tragic. I am so sorry for you. I am a widow and I understand. Again, thank you for this magnificent video on PBN, I do so wish I had seen it before I got started. I will order the clear gesso today and I have a very large jar of white gesso I believe I will try covering the numbers, I don’t have a white paint pen or brush, might even try some of my markers in the color of the spot to cover up?... I liked and subscribed with notification so you’re stuck with me now! Thank you.
Wonderful feedback, so thank you! I actually have a “Basics” video where I talk about how far to dip the brush in the water and the paint. I hate getting paint in the ferrule! Flow-Aid is what I use for the paints. I did a video on other additives and mediums too, so I could visually demonstrate and compare the different ones. Flow-Aid is by Liquitex, and it is AMAZING to help the paint flow on the canvas. I was like you and had white gesso from my mixed media journal days, and I had never heard of clear gesso. What a game-changer it has been! I wish I had mentioned that white gesso is perfect for covering lines and numbers too...that is something I figured out after recording this video last year. Thank you for telling me the proper terminology for the brushes...I feel like an idgit not using the proper terms. 😂
Looks like I need to hit Amazon up and buy a few things. Lol I can’t wait to try some of these and see how they work. Thanks so much for sharing this with us.
“Amazon is life”...😂😂😂. But seriously, I get very positive feedback on the tools I recommend, so I hope you will be find them and that they will help you too!
Omg! I love this video!!! I have learned soooo much and I also appreciate your voice. It is so easy to listen to. I can’t wait to start my paint by number project.
I’m a painter 👩🏼🎨 myself ... but it’s been about 3 years since a touched my paints after my divorce I kind of lost my inspiration then Covid hit and I was just looking on Facebook and came across paint my numbers and it took me back to my childhood I had no clue they did these !!! I’m so excited to get mine it’s arriving next week so I was looking to basically see if you could use gesso a d bam 💥 I found your videos I love all your advice and tips I’m taking your advice and I have a feeling my home will be filled with paint by numbers and if might possibly get me into trying my own art again but I wanted you to know I appreciate your videos 😁
What I love about it is the freedom paint by numbers allow me have so I can relax and not be forced to be creative. But what I also love is that you will be able to take your skills as a painter and add your own creativity to your pieces to make it your own. PBN can be so therapeutic in that way...especially for getting back into things we used to love...like baby steps. Once we do the smaller things, then you have the freedom to take it to new levels or whatever level you are comfortable with. I always encourage everyone (especially on the Facebook group) to not feel intimidated by another person’s talents or skills) but to take a few steps back from their work and if they love it, to stop working on it. A PBN is exactly what you need to put your artist’s “hat” back on and dabble again. I’m so happy to see your comment. Big hugs and encouragement from SC in the US!
OMG! Melanie - I am soooo Thankful I watched this video before I even started my painting. I took pictures of all your supplies and tips so I can go to Michael’s and buy the rest of my supplies tomorrow. When I received my kit and looked at the canvas I was in shock at how small some of the sections are. I’ve been doing the 5diamond pictures and have been strongly disappointed because some weren’t as pictured when I bought them. So I’m trying Paint-By-Number. Thanks so much! I pray for you a speedy recovery so you can get back to work.
Thank you for your comment! I’ll tell you that a lot of times, the colors of your PBN won’t be the same as what is pictured on the website, because display colors are all different...but in most cases, the final project is gorgeous regardless! Good luck!!
Just bought my first paint by number kit since childhood. I am now retired and looking for another pastime. Your video was absolutely wonderful, great ideas and information. Thank you!
I am going to start painting by numbers. I'm researching all I can find prior to starting. Yours is the most informative video I have found. None of the others have mentioned using the Liquitex clear gesso to cover the canvas first. Amazing hint! Then the Liquitex flow aid! I like the way you covered using the proper brushes. Another first! Then the way to store the paints and picture in zip lock baggies. Thank you for sharing your experience. I feel better prepared to start my journey.
I’m so happy you found this helpful! I need to update this video…along with several others, but I’m glad you are starting your PBN journey ❤️. It is such a wonderful way to relax when you have the proper tools to make it less frustrating. Thank you for watching!!
Melanie, what a blessing to find you online. I've been doing PBNs for years but I learn at least one thing new with each video. On 2/4 Masterpiece 5 pc. brushes 1/2 off $16.95 USA
AMAZING tutorial!!! These kind of videos are one of my favorite kind of video on your channel! (besides diamond paintings) And to anyone reading this, stay safe in the world and have a great day! 😊
I thank you so much for letting us know what products are good, so we don't have to do the trial and error process, which saves us so much money.. being that I am disabled, funds are tight, and any money I can save , helps out so much.
Thank you for sharing all of this helpful information! I made my own paint by number using the PBN website and printed it on texture paper that I found on Amazon. I ordered clear gesso, and waiting for that to arrive so I can begin. So excited!
I hope you LOVE this wonderful, “zen therapy” hobby!! Be sure to join my FB group, because I have the best, most helpful members on the planet 🌎. {They’re literally worldwide 😬!} The link for my group is in the description below the video. ☺️
A terrific tutorial! Lots of very useful information! I'd say anyone starting on "paint by number" should watch your video first...You did a Lovely job on your paintings!
Valerie B oh thank you! I’ve been meaning to record all of this for a long time, but it is very time consuming. It’s great to know it is appreciated and helpful! 😊
You are amazing. I've been stuck at home because of so many health issues so I decided to get a paint-by-numbers kit. I was completely lost and I didn't know where to start. But after watching your video I bought everything through you on Amazon. Now I am over the moon and excited about starting. Thank you so much for explaining everything in detail. Because of you my day is just going to be amazing because I have something to do. Please keep making videos because the detail that you go into makes everything easy to understand. God bless you and thank you for the bottom of my heart.
That was probably the BEST comment and feedback I’ve ever received! You just made my day...and week. 🥰 I’m passionate about a lot of things, and I love to share information, so I am so thrilled to know my videos have been helpful to you. I love the process of my PBNs so much more now that I use these tricks and products. I hope you will find the same!
@@MelanieBsCreativeStudio Wow, I have never had someone respond to my feedback. Again, thank you so much. I am starting my first project on Tuesday when I get all my supplies. I will add a picture so you can see how it turned out. Have a wonderful day.
Try cleaning your brushes in simple green. Soak for 5 minutes and rinse. It works for acrylic and latex (house) paint. My brushes and rollers are always like new and it's biodegradable and safer than other chemicals.
I have a lot waiting for me when i get home from vacation. I am graduating from diamond painting. These tips are so good! I have the suggested products on their way to my home!
I love doing both diamond paintings and paint by numbers. It all depends on my mood. You’ll probably feel the same way! You’ll love paint by numbers once you try one.
I couple of my HG items you may want to look into: 1. a palette knife, mine is very thin and long about 1/2x2". It's wonderful for stirring paint as you can get into the pots perfectly, wipes clean in two strokes because of it's flat surface, So much nicer than trying to scrape paint off a round brush handle and next to no waste. I also use it to measure paint mixes... dip straight in and either use both sides or just one depending on how much you want to wind up with, do the same in the other color and you have a nice even mix. I do brush mix for tiny amounts but if you have a kit that requires full mixes it's so helpful 2. The Masters brush cleaner and preserver. It's a solid in a little pan.. just pick up some water on your brush, swirl it around, rinse, and it's clean. When you are finished run the clean wet bristles through the soap, shape, and let dry. Next time you paint rinse it out and you are ready to go. I just keep in on my painting table next to my rinse water, no need for a sink. Nothing kills a brush faster than soaking in water or paint drying in the bristles, and this keeps both from ever occurring. 3. those empty paint pots. Any time I'm working with a "mix" kit such as Dimensions I mix a small amount of every color needed before I even start. I can sort my colors light to dark which is my preferred way to work and I don't have to stop and fuss with mixing unless I run out and need more.
waymire01 I was actually waiting on my Masters restorer and brush cleaner to come in when I did the video. I know I have some, but we are moving and have no idea where to begin to look. I received it now, and it makes such a difference. I use the same type for my makeup brushes, because i love the ease of water & swirling to get them clean. Easy-peasy! I also have palette knives, which I HAVE to get out for this, because you are so right, they do work better. My original thought for this video was to direct it to those who are really working on a budget or just didn’t want to rush out and buy a bunch of extra things until they knew they loved doing PBNs, (which we both know they will! 😊). I have GOT to get my palette knife now & use it for my update video. Once we are moved and settled. I haven’t even started recording on mixing colors and blending yet. I enjoy the simplicity of PBN, and I’m trying so hard to keep it stress-free for myself & then I started overthinking and trying to blend and fix. I make myself stop sometimes & “be done”, or I will put more time into it than I intended. Thanks for your input!
waymire01 oh, and I have the empty paint pots too, and when I eventually do a blending video, I’ll be showing those. I do love the idea of you making them in advance! Love it!
@@MelanieBsCreativeStudio I messed up some paintings before I learned to to the entire thing as it is intended.. then evaluate for detail and blending. I don't blend per say, I mix transition colors and increase the resolution by adding them between areas that need a bit more transition sometimes one, sometimes more such as in a sky. Remember PBN is an impressionist style which uses visual blending vs super smooth transitions. Always evaluate a couple of feet away which is viewing distance, it's easy to get fussy when you are inches from the surface painting. Also keep in mind detail is in the foreground and backgrounds should be less distinct or you lose depth.
Wow...I really appreciate how informative you were about so many aspects of pbn. I only wish I would have seen your video pop up in my feed sooner. I have switched to using ultra fine tip paint pens in lieu of the paint pots because I got so discouraged by the results I was getting. I am super perfectionistic and the brushes and paint were just not allowing me to complete my project in the way I desired. You can just imagine how long it would take, and the money I would spend, to buy packs and packs of paint pens to try to find a close match. My paintings never came out exactly as pictured, but at least it was clean and precise...and color is all up to the individual anyway, I suppose. Your tips are super helpful. Thank you! I appreciate you!
Tina Rissell I appreciate you for telling me that! 🥰 I hope these tips save you a ton of money & time. We are supposed to be passionate about our art, and if it becomes more work than fun, then we lose our love for it. I really would love for you to let me know if you try these tricks & how they work out for you!
Thank you so much! I learned a lot from your video, I'm a bit confident now to start my painting by numbers❤. This is going to be my first time to paint ever😊.. My Dad and my sister are great painters and an 8 year old kid can perhaps do better drawing or painting than I😅. Thanks again and God bless you and ur fam🙏🥰.
I’m sorry for the delay in responding, but thank you so much for your thoughtful comment. It was so disheartening that this video was ruined with the audio. I’m so thankful you got something out of it although half of it was destroyed. I am confident that you will feel successful with paint by numbers, and not because it is “easy”, but because I like to teach people how to feel successful at this hobby. Everyone has a gift, but some people have just not tapped into theirs yet. Maybe you haven’t had the confidence in yourself to realize your potential. Your project may start as a paint by number, but it may end as a work of art! 😍❤️ Be sure to join my Facebook group for extra inspiration and information. I have wonderful and encouraging members, and I try to be present there to offer support and advice as often as possible. You can find the link at Melanieb.info under the FB icon or on the tab for “Connect with Me”. ☺️
Awesome tutorial! I’m feeling a little overwhelmed about starting my first painting because of all the steps you need to follow. I’m excited as well. Like Diamond Painting, practice makes perfect.
So happy I was able to help! Sorry about the audio issues in the second half. That is a new problem. The audio worked properly for years, and then the music artist claimed a copyright. When I tried to fix it, the new music was not applied properly, so I’m trying to produce a new version of this video soon. I’m sorry for the inconvenience, but I hope to have this situation resolved soon!
I am so happy to have found this video. I have fallen in love with paint by number. Finished 2 of them, but cannot wait to utilize some of your suggestions. A well done tutorial video!!
You are so welcome! Thank you for your positive feedback. I apologize for the audio error. I tried to fix the issue, but I am going to attempt to resolve it by creating a new video entirely.
I appreciated this tutorial before startig my project without doing more research. I bought liquitex flow aid and used it a few times before reading the instructions (that's on me). Even though this helpful video suggested using the flow aid instead of water, the liquitex flow aid has instructions to dilute it with water before using it. I will comment again once I have done that, but using it undiluted, I've had to go back over darker parts of my project having used it undiluted on the first round. I'm not trying to criticize this person (& I purchased everything at Michael's, so it's not like she's gotten a Perk from my purchases); just sharing my experience with the products she is suggesting. Also, I used the other product she suggested to prime the canvas first so the paint would go over easier, and that hasn't been my experience. She said do a "light coat", so maybe my coat was too light. Again, my motivation isn't to hurt this person; just to offer my experience having used her video as a trusted guide. Happy Paintng friends!
Thank you so much Ive done paint by numbers since I was young I haven’t been able to paint for many years I wanted this Christmas to try to see if my hands will now let me paint again..I purchased for Christmas 2 Paint by numbers and they came on Canvas my heart went to my stomach As I’ve never seen them this way!! I’m so thankful I found you I’ve ordered the things I don’t have for canvas So that my paintings are thick like I’ve seen so many on Utube be!! I also was glad to know about some new paint brushes I have some great ones for my bisque I needed shorter brushes as you know and more detailed for a paint by number So Thank you for all give recommendations It was only 30.00 to add the clear and the thinner for the paint and the 2” paint brush along with one of the brushes you had I really liked the corner cut brush you showed got one of them..Thank you so much I take my paintings seriously and I take time in them and wanted to learn on canvas paintings So this was absolutely great tutorial a 10 hands down!! 🙌🙌🙌Have a blessed new year 2021 Sheila
Fantastic tips video. I'm completing my first adult pbn now and your tips are my tips! 1. Gesso; 2. Use flow improver; 3. Need good brushes! Thank you for posting this hope it helps a lot of people!
Yeah! So helpful! I bought the Flow Aid, the medium white acrylic, the Sharpies and some Princeton paint brushes!! I forgot 🤪 to click on links this time but will do so next time!
Thanks for all the great tips. I'm starting my first PBN and this video is fantastic information for a beginner. Lots of tips that I would not have thought of. Thanks so much.
Thank you for that feedback! 🥰 After you’ve done something for a while and then try to teach it, you wonder if you remembered everything you need to tell others. So happy this was helpful!!
That’s how I discovered mine, too...learning as I went along. I still feel like I could teach all day, but each person will come up with their own method of what works for them. That’s the way it should be! 😊
Hi i prepped a smooth canvas with clear gesso and it smoothened the canvas and my paints were sliding on the canvas and took me a lot of time and effort to cover the spaces up😮
What brand of gesso did you use? That makes all the difference! Liquitex Clear Gesso or something similar has a “tooth” to it. It grips the paint, because it has a texture…almost a grit…and that is what makes it work so well.
While you’re waiting, I have over 100 PBN videos to occupy you and help you to feel more prepared (I feel like a Paid Programming Announcer...”...but WAIT, there’s more!”) 😂😂😂 If nothing else, be sure to watch the gesso videos, mounting videos, and...well, just watch them all. 🤣 I’m so excited for you to start! Also, you definitely want to join my Facebook group if you haven’t yet. That’s a “happy place” where everyone shares their work, asks questions, etc. I have an intro video at the top for you to watch when you join to help you navigate where I have info! facebook.com/groups/melanieb/ Hope to see you there!
Excellent video excellent advice all the things you say I have experienced but I'm not really a video person cos someone always knows more than me but your words are my thoughts while I paint thankyou
Thank you! I recorded this one so long ago, and I feel like I’ve learned and been able to share so much more information since then. I hope my videos (since this one) have been able to fill even more gaps that I may have left behind. ❤️
This was so helpful! I'm working on my first project since I was a kid. I was about to give up in frustration. These tips will definitely keep me going. Thank you!
I love to hear that!! Be sure to join the Facebook group, because there is so much love and support there too. You can share you work and get help with tricky situations. Here is the link: facebook.com/groups/melanieb/ 😊
EXCELLENT tutorial - many thanks. I finally have some great tips from someone who really knows what they're doing and has done their 'homework' [research]. The gesso coating tip is my favorite because I hate the challenge of trying to fill in all those annoying little divots in the canvas, and how an uncoated one tends to absorb too much paint.
Yessss! You will have people say it is unnecessary, and I say “You do you, Boo Boo”, because I prefer to spend the 5-10 minutes on prepping with gesso than the extra 20+ hours repainting sections with “divots” and possibly not having enough paint to do so. Seems like it makes logical sense to me, but others will argue to the ends of the earth and back. 🤷🏻♀️
This video is 2 years old... but I'm wondering if I have already started my first PBN if I should go back and gesso what I haven't painted yet. I'm like 10% done, in a corner of the canvas. EDIT: Watched more videos and I can! Clear gesso right over the top!
Yes! 😂 I was asked that question a lot, hence the video after this one (which thankfully you found.) I’m glad you were able to have your question answered…I’ve been down with COVID for almost three weeks 😏, but I honestly clear gesso every, single canvas (not every board type painting) before I start. It’s been a game-changer for me! (You’ll see a lot of people argue this on groups, so I’ve done more gesso videos to demonstrate why I believe it helps, but it’s a personal decision, for sure!)
Umer Raees THANK YOU for that wonderful feedback! I’ve been moving, so I’m running behind on recording, but I hope to be uploading lots of new videos soon. What kind would you like to see more of?
You have the best content, I love your channel! This video is one of the best ones for someone newish to pbn. Ordering the flow and gesso, and those brushes you recommended! 😊
Hi! I’m happy you found my videos! I also have a FB group for paint by numbers and diamond painting enthusiasts. It’s listed in the description below the video. I’d love for you to join us!
Gesso is a good option for dulling down the numbers and lines that show through lighter colours you can make it yourself and use any colour combinations depending on your most used colour in your painting it's like preparing a canvas with prepaint which professional artist use
Hi you need pva glue some paint not to dark a colour and talcum powder go on CZcams for measurements but I just put same amount of each roughly mix to past and paint on.i found white was too see through so I use a hint of colour, not much or you'll never see your lines test a small bit first
Thank you!!! I am working on a puzzle, abd I was thinking the next proyect should be this paint by numbers!! I get frustrated easily!!’ So, thank you for all the tips!!
Every time I get frustrated with one hobby, I switch to another one. That’s why I am involved in so many different hobbies. I’m sooooo ADHD! “SQUIRREL!!” 😂😂😂
Thank you!! 🥰🥰🥰 Be sure to watch my Newbie’s video and my Gesso videos next (if you can!) I have my videos in order of how I think they help on my Paint by Number playlist. czcams.com/play/PL-QwHEM8yi2x7s-14zCeyzAvmnAIHm4gk.html
Thank you so much for linking this video Melanie! I accidentally ordered a paint by number thinking it was a diamond painting 🙃 and therefore want to try this out. I definitely am going to get the things you show in your video to help me along... like I need another hobby 😆. This looks like so much fun too!, thank you again for your videos, I truly am enjoying them and appreciate you and your craft. Thanks again, you are a very lovely lady. PS, I LOVE your Father Angel painting❤️
PS!....and where do I find a link that lists all your videos so I can keep learning? Thank you so much... you may be a lifesaver ...Living alone in lockdown here in UK!
Here is my channel home page: czcams.com/users/MelanieGilstrapCreativeStudio At the top, you will see a row of options. Click on “Videos”, and it will show you every single video I have (over 400 😬), or click “Playlist”, and you can choose the Paint by Numbers only videos. ☺️
Hi Melanie, I just wanted to thank you for all the tips and product recommendations. I've really improved my technique. Hope you have wonderful holidays. Robert.
Thank you so much! There is so much information to share, and I’m always afraid I’ll talk too much, and it will be overwhelming...or I worry I’ll forget something important. I guess that means I’ll just have to keep making videos, right? 😬😊
Finally, someone who knows all about paint by number. What a fantastic tectorial!!
Jazmine Shaffer your comment just made my day!! Thank you so much for that wonderfully positive feedback. I seriously hope I’m giving viewers the kind of information I’m looking for when I search for something as a consumer. What a blessing you watching and leaving my that comment was for my spirit today! 🥰
Melanie B’s Creative Studio just an idea buy a gloss or mate medium to finish the painting, Liquitex has one that is a gloss medium and varnish combined . I am an artist so can highly recommend it to finish any painting. Also after you put the medium on you can put a coat of varnish, I loved your tutorial .
I started my 1st PBN project today. I think I'm going to purchase the Liquitex flow aid, the paint was a little chunky...and I am afraid that I'm going to run out of paint. Thank you for posting and sharing with us! Happy New Year.
Flow-Aid and clear gesso are MUST-HAVES! If you get nothing else, those are imperative to your success. 😊
@@christapaul5545 I started my first PBN today & I was already stressed bc the paint was chunky & I wasn’t sure how many drops of water to add. I kept saying “no painting outside the lines,” and I did😩. Fortunately, I remember the 1st video to do the dark colors first. Before using the 2nd color, I put a couple of drops of water (I’m waiting for the flow aide, grosso & better brushes). I noticed that the drops of water helped make the paint creamy.
This is the best video I have found for paint by number kits. Very concise information. Great tips. Well explained. Thank you
The tribute painting to your son is so very precious.
Carol WILDEY thank you!! I was THRILLED to find this one!!
Carol Wildey precious very precious
Melanie B’s Creative Studio That painting of your son is really precious
PLEASE NOTE: This video was originally uploaded with music that was copyright free. Then the creator decided to make a copyright violation against my video anyway, and I had to change the music. Once I did that, the audio now overpowers my instructions on the last half, so I am going to be re-recording and updating this video with a new version as soon as possible.
I deeply apologize for this inconvenience, but I appreciate your understanding and continuing to like this video in the meantime! 🥰❤️
I just found you and hope you get chance to sort the audio soon-what I heard up to the music was terrific - thanks!
@@josephborder5055 thank you ❤️! I’ve been making extensive notes about the new content I want to include since this video was made. I’ve even designed custom products to help the PBN community, since I first started paint by numbers, because I am so adamant about making this hobby as frustration-free as possible.
Of course, I don’t ever want anyone to think that they have to buy the products that I’ve invented in order to complete a paint by number, but I definitely want to give everyone all of the options that are now available since the time that this video was recorded. ☺️
You don’t know how much I appreciate your feedback on this original video! 🥰❤️
I am so glad that I saw this video before I started my first project..
Magzie01950 I’m glad you did too! I hope these tips help you. ☺️
@@MelanieBsCreativeStudio I am looking for the links to the brushes and etc and can't find them. I like your channel and want to support it.
@@MelanieBsCreativeStudio I am looking for the links to the brushes and etc and can't find them. I like your channel and want to support it.
I’m glad I watched this first! Just bought my first paint my number. Now off to the craft store to get gesso, floaid, a white sharpie, and better brushes! I’ve taped my canvas down with painters tape and can’t wait to start! I was going to tape it down to the table but on a board you can move it away easily!
I would love to hear how your experience has been!
So glad I found your channel before receiving and starting my first paint by numbers.
I’m glad you found me too! I’m sorry this video got screwed up recently, but please join my Facebook group where my members and I help others get the information they need to be successful in their PBN journey! 🥰
It’s a private group on FB called “Melanie B’s Creative Studio”… I’m not sure CZcams will let me add the link, but that information is in the description below the video for you. Hope to see you there, if you’re not already!
@@MelanieBsCreativeStudio I don't have Facebook but might have to start one!!
Thank you for your videos. I purchased my first PBN on a whim and have been overthinking how to start. This video is the best tutorial that I have seen.
Thank you so much! I was heartbroken when the audio was ruined by the music, so I am planning a new, upgraded version of this for 2024. Please be watching for that video, because it will have lots of information that even more advanced PBN enthusiasts will find useful {I hope 😬}.
This is simply an extraordinary video, Melanie. Clear, organized, and SO full of such terrific information. Just great. Cannot wait to begin!
Oh, that’s wonderful feedback! 🥰
Dan
&8
Thank you. I knew something was not right to start with just this
Thank you for sharing. I was lost until I found you. Bless you. I lost my son also & when you showed the angel made my day.
Ohhhh, I am so sorry about your loss. It is indescribable to anyone who hasn’t suffered through it. My heart goes out to you, and I believe everything happens for a reason...that’s why you found me. 🥰
Art is life no matter how it turns out it's yours and you accomplished something that's art
I totally agree!!
I had a paint by number kit for my birth day this year and i'm 64, I'd love to be able to paint, did it as a kid but just getting back into now. I've watch about 12 of these paint by number video is week and this is the best one I've found so far. great work Melanie.
Thank you for saying that 🥰🥰🥰. My goal/dream is to become the leading “adviser” on CZcams for paint-by-numbers, diamond paintings and maybe a few other DIY projects 😉. I’m happy you found paint-by-numbers and me! 🥰
Your angel painting is beautiful... sorry for the loss of your son. Thank you for all the detailed information which will make my first attempt so much better!
Thank you. Your angel is precious. God bless you.
Thanks for actually showing the paint consistency and the addition of Flow Aid. “Creamy” means different things to everyone but the demo makes it visually clear what texture you try for.
Thank you for that feedback! I actually recorded an entire video yesterday on which additives do what to the paint. I hope I included more visuals like you mentioned, because you are absolutely correct about the perception of consistency. Great tip!!
This demonstrates everything.
*_literally_* *_everything_*
Wow! This video is exactly what I was looking for! I've started my first PBN and kept thinking that there has to be some tips out there to make this easier (I started with a very detailed print). The one thing I wish I had done was to take pictures of it before starting. And I agree many of the brushes I've tried have bristles that are too long. I just hope it doesn't look like crap after spending months working on it! LOL Thank you for the excellent tips.
I’m so thrilled for your feedback, especially after this video was ruined by the audio/music issues. 🥹
After years of brushes that were not made for paint by numbers, I designed my own sets of custom brushes. I couldn’t take it anymore, and I wanted to offer “frustration-free” products for my fellow PBN hobbyists. They sell out fast, but they are being manufactured right now. This isn’t a sales pitch 😂, but they do help with those pesky areas where long brushes just do not work!
I’ll put a link in the description in case you want to take a look ☺️. Have fun with your painting adventures!!
Your video is my absolute favorite and so many helpful tips. I have painted a couple of paint by number and very quickly realized that I needed different and better paintbrushes but after watching your video I realize that I need to go back to the store and that I am not painting with the right brush. Also I realized on my own that I needed something to thin the paint because some were so thick, and bought some thinner but I am not sure if I bought the correct stuff. It does make me feel good that I realized some of these things on my own like getting my paining pre mounted onto a board before starting to paint is very helpful, but you have taken me to the next level. Thank you so much for your wonderful video
Just started this hobby a week ago and am loving it. I've purchased most of the items on your list and they are spot on. Thank you for posting this!
You are welcome! I had been doing PBNs for a while, and I was frustrated with the paints and brushes (especially). It took me a while to find the right tools, so I wanted to save others that time and money. I’m so glad you find these tips helpful! 🥰
How do I know beginner , intermediate or expert kits. And have you posted the preferred site to purchase kits? Thanks for any response.
I found this tutorial halfway through my mona lisa project and I can clearly see where I painted before watching and after, the difference is startling so thank you so much for putting this together and putting it out there! I've used most of your tips but the only problem I'm finding is cutting the bristles as any scissors I have must be dull cause it mostly bends the bristles but cuts a few so the brushes are very uneven. Also condolences on losing your boy, that angel is a beautiful tribute to him and your granddaughter.
Thank you so very much for your feedback & thoughtfulness! I’m so happy to know you’ve been helped by my videos. The brushes are a “booger” to cut, but it may be your scissors. I was probably using a sharp pair. Please be sure the join the Facebook group, so you can share your progress! ☺️
I may have a few tips if you are very careful.
〰🔥🕯✂🔧🖌🚿💧
It works for me, and I often need to do these few things because scissors are tricky to keep perfect for every time. And it's usually always another reason they decide to not work other than just being too dull.
Maybe it will work for you, and that is using a lighter to sizzle away the super long and unruly hairs that are on the tips of your paint brushes.
But....!
.lol Make sure you do it very slowly. Holding the flame pretty far away at first and then moving the heat of the flame closer and closer to the tips of the brush hairs.
I usually jerk the flame away quickly once hear it sizzling and/or if I see it starting to fizzle up or curl in on it's self.
Keeping the brush tips really wet and pointed helps too, you'll be less likely to make the mistake of burning away more than you want to. The heat also helps set the brush tip nice and stiff and straight.
Kind of like the heat from a blow dryer or a curling iron would set our own human hair in place.
Another tip for cutting anything that is small and thin with dull scissors is usually using the base of the blades that are closes to your handle and not the tip or the middle part of the blades. Those are used the most, so those parts of the blades dull faster.
Most of the time scissors won't cut because the blades are not screwed together as tightly as they once were, so things will just stay lightly clamped in-between the two blades.
So0o yeah, just tighten the screw that holds the two blades together. It'll help, especially since the scissors need to slide by smoothly and not wobbly.
Also making sure the blades are nice and clean so no particles get in and cause further spacing. Any separation between the scissors blades will make them seem useless. But they are still good. Just little tweaks here and there and your scissors will work much better for any moment.
🖼🎨🙂👍
Seriously the best PBN tutorial on CZcams. You deserve a million subs! 😀 I just started my first PBN, and it is literally driving me crazy. Totally using your tips from now on!!
YAY!! I love this kind of feedback! Thank you so much for watching!
I have people who have asked “Is it really necessary to have “tips and tricks” for a Paint by number? I thought it was pretty self-explanatory”...I’m like, “Huh! You have no idea what is involved!” 😂😂😂 There is sooo much more to it than just painting the numbers.
Love! Love! Love! This video! Thank you! I sure wish I had seen this before I started. Firstly I have been an artist forever and I didn’t know there was clear gesso. That tip alone would have made my day. The tip to cover the number is a godsend. Never thought of that. I did use my smallest, sharpest craft knife to cut the numbers off, but that makes me really nervous, so really appreciate your tips to overcome the dreaded show through. Not to be a know-it-all but your descriptions of the paint brushes all wonderful, however when a number slash zero is used, the zero is called an “ought”. So the higher the number over the ought, the smaller the tip. A 20-ought will be smaller than a 10 or 12 ought. You are exactly right though in the descriptions of detail, spotter.... My tip is for you to keep the paint out of the ferrule to begin with because if you get paint in the ferrule and one molecule of that paint dries in there you have reduced the life of the brush. It has been so dry this year if I hold my brush to the air while searching for another number I am painting well......then I have to wash the bristles well before doing anything else. I have brushes older than I am, if you care for them properly they can last for ever! I forget what you called the liquid you added, but it comes as extender, retarder, glaze base, glaze...... but I totally agree if you get too much in the paint if you let it sit overnight it will be OK tomorrow. These-retarders dilute without reducing the pigment. If you use water to thin, you do reduce the pigment. I am so sorry you lost your son, absolutely tragic. I am so sorry for you. I am a widow and I understand. Again, thank you for this magnificent video on PBN, I do so wish I had seen it before I got started. I will order the clear gesso today and I have a very large jar of white gesso I believe I will try covering the numbers, I don’t have a white paint pen or brush, might even try some of my markers in the color of the spot to cover up?... I liked and subscribed with notification so you’re stuck with me now! Thank you.
Wonderful feedback, so thank you! I actually have a “Basics” video where I talk about how far to dip the brush in the water and the paint. I hate getting paint in the ferrule! Flow-Aid is what I use for the paints. I did a video on other additives and mediums too, so I could visually demonstrate and compare the different ones. Flow-Aid is by Liquitex, and it is AMAZING to help the paint flow on the canvas.
I was like you and had white gesso from my mixed media journal days, and I had never heard of clear gesso. What a game-changer it has been! I wish I had mentioned that white gesso is perfect for covering lines and numbers too...that is something I figured out after recording this video last year.
Thank you for telling me the proper terminology for the brushes...I feel like an idgit not using the proper terms. 😂
I ordered a custom paint by number. A picture of me and my wife. These tips are really going to help. Thank you. I am ready to start.
Looks like I need to hit Amazon up and buy a few things. Lol I can’t wait to try some of these and see how they work. Thanks so much for sharing this with us.
“Amazon is life”...😂😂😂. But seriously, I get very positive feedback on the tools I recommend, so I hope you will be find them and that they will help you too!
Omg! I love this video!!! I have learned soooo much and I also appreciate your voice. It is so easy to listen to. I can’t wait to start my paint by number project.
Oh, thank you!! I have literally been in a funk this week, and you have made my day! (Maybe even my week!!) 🥰🥰🥰
I’m a painter 👩🏼🎨 myself ... but it’s been about 3 years since a touched my paints after my divorce I kind of lost my inspiration then Covid hit and I was just looking on Facebook and came across paint my numbers and it took me back to my childhood I had no clue they did these !!! I’m so excited to get mine it’s arriving next week so I was looking to basically see if you could use gesso a d bam 💥 I found your videos I love all your advice and tips I’m taking your advice and I have a feeling my home will be filled with paint by numbers and if might possibly get me into trying my own art again but I wanted you to know I appreciate your videos 😁
What I love about it is the freedom paint by numbers allow me have so I can relax and not be forced to be creative. But what I also love is that you will be able to take your skills as a painter and add your own creativity to your pieces to make it your own. PBN can be so therapeutic in that way...especially for getting back into things we used to love...like baby steps. Once we do the smaller things, then you have the freedom to take it to new levels or whatever level you are comfortable with. I always encourage everyone (especially on the Facebook group) to not feel intimidated by another person’s talents or skills) but to take a few steps back from their work and if they love it, to stop working on it. A PBN is exactly what you need to put your artist’s “hat” back on and dabble again. I’m so happy to see your comment. Big hugs and encouragement from SC in the US!
Wow. I love your Diamond Painting videos and now I want to try this just because of how engaging you are, and make it look like so much fun😊
OMG! Melanie - I am soooo Thankful I watched this video before I even started my painting. I took pictures of all your supplies and tips so I can go to Michael’s and buy the rest of my supplies tomorrow. When I received my kit and looked at the canvas I was in shock at how small some of the sections are. I’ve been doing the 5diamond pictures and have been strongly disappointed because some weren’t as pictured when I bought them. So I’m trying Paint-By-Number. Thanks so much! I pray for you a speedy recovery so you can get back to work.
Thank you for your comment! I’ll tell you that a lot of times, the colors of your PBN won’t be the same as what is pictured on the website, because display colors are all different...but in most cases, the final project is gorgeous regardless! Good luck!!
Just bought my first paint by number kit since childhood. I am now retired and looking for another pastime. Your video was absolutely wonderful, great ideas and information. Thank you!
I am going to start painting by numbers. I'm researching all I can find prior to starting. Yours is the most informative video I have found. None of the others have mentioned using the
Liquitex clear gesso to cover the canvas first. Amazing hint! Then the Liquitex flow aid! I like the way you covered using the proper brushes. Another first! Then the way to store the paints
and picture in zip lock baggies. Thank you for sharing your experience. I feel better prepared to start my journey.
I’m so happy you found this helpful! I need to update this video…along with several others, but I’m glad you are starting your PBN journey ❤️. It is such a wonderful way to relax when you have the proper tools to make it less frustrating.
Thank you for watching!!
Melanie, what a blessing to find you online. I've been doing PBNs for years but I learn at least one thing new with each video. On 2/4 Masterpiece 5 pc. brushes 1/2 off $16.95 USA
Wonderful!! That’s what I want to hear... that experienced PBN artists learn something new. 🥰🥰🥰
I returned by first PBN after watching your video to buy gesso and flow aid and started my new project correctly thanks to you!!!
AMAZING tutorial!!! These kind of videos are one of my favorite kind of video on your channel! (besides diamond paintings) And to anyone reading this, stay safe in the world and have a great day! 😊
Thank you so much for your feedback & thoughtfulness! 🥰
I thank you so much for letting us know what products are good, so we don't have to do the trial and error process, which saves us so much money.. being that I am disabled, funds are tight, and any money I can save , helps out so much.
I’m so happy this helps you!
Thank you for sharing all of this helpful information! I made my own paint by number using the PBN website and printed it on texture paper that I found on Amazon. I ordered clear gesso, and waiting for that to arrive so I can begin. So excited!
I hope you LOVE this wonderful, “zen therapy” hobby!! Be sure to join my FB group, because I have the best, most helpful members on the planet 🌎. {They’re literally worldwide 😬!} The link for my group is in the description below the video. ☺️
Thank you for being our art teacher! I’m working on my first painting as I listen to your video
Thank you so much! 🥰
A terrific tutorial! Lots of very useful information! I'd say anyone starting on "paint by number" should watch your video first...You did a Lovely job on your paintings!
Valerie B oh thank you! I’ve been meaning to record all of this for a long time, but it is very time consuming. It’s great to know it is appreciated and helpful! 😊
You are amazing. I've been stuck at home because of so many health issues so I decided to get a paint-by-numbers kit. I was completely lost and I didn't know where to start. But after watching your video I bought everything through you on Amazon. Now I am over the moon and excited about starting. Thank you so much for explaining everything in detail. Because of you my day is just going to be amazing because I have something to do. Please keep making videos because the detail that you go into makes everything easy to understand. God bless you and thank you for the bottom of my heart.
That was probably the BEST comment and feedback I’ve ever received! You just made my day...and week. 🥰 I’m passionate about a lot of things, and I love to share information, so I am so thrilled to know my videos have been helpful to you. I love the process of my PBNs so much more now that I use these tricks and products. I hope you will find the same!
@@MelanieBsCreativeStudio Wow, I have never had someone respond to my feedback. Again, thank you so much. I am starting my first project on Tuesday when I get all my supplies. I will add a picture so you can see how it turned out. Have a wonderful day.
Try cleaning your brushes in simple green. Soak for 5 minutes and rinse. It works for acrylic and latex (house) paint. My brushes and rollers are always like new and it's biodegradable and safer than other chemicals.
Awesome
🥰
Lady the dollar tree for baby wipes. Lol. I appreciate you for taking the time to give us this info. I’ve haven’t started yet.
I don’t use baby wipes at all now, I use cosmetic wipes. They are a game changer for conditioning brushes!
I have a lot waiting for me when i get home from vacation. I am graduating from diamond painting. These tips are so good! I have the suggested products on their way to my home!
I love doing both diamond paintings and paint by numbers. It all depends on my mood. You’ll probably feel the same way! You’ll love paint by numbers once you try one.
I couple of my HG items you may want to look into: 1. a palette knife, mine is very thin and long about 1/2x2". It's wonderful for stirring paint as you can get into the pots perfectly, wipes clean in two strokes because of it's flat surface, So much nicer than trying to scrape paint off a round brush handle and next to no waste. I also use it to measure paint mixes... dip straight in and either use both sides or just one depending on how much you want to wind up with, do the same in the other color and you have a nice even mix. I do brush mix for tiny amounts but if you have a kit that requires full mixes it's so helpful 2. The Masters brush cleaner and preserver. It's a solid in a little pan.. just pick up some water on your brush, swirl it around, rinse, and it's clean. When you are finished run the clean wet bristles through the soap, shape, and let dry. Next time you paint rinse it out and you are ready to go. I just keep in on my painting table next to my rinse water, no need for a sink. Nothing kills a brush faster than soaking in water or paint drying in the bristles, and this keeps both from ever occurring. 3. those empty paint pots. Any time I'm working with a "mix" kit such as Dimensions I mix a small amount of every color needed before I even start. I can sort my colors light to dark which is my preferred way to work and I don't have to stop and fuss with mixing unless I run out and need more.
waymire01 I was actually waiting on my Masters restorer and brush cleaner to come in when I did the video. I know I have some, but we are moving and have no idea where to begin to look. I received it now, and it makes such a difference. I use the same type for my makeup brushes, because i love the ease of water & swirling to get them clean. Easy-peasy! I also have palette knives, which I HAVE to get out for this, because you are so right, they do work better.
My original thought for this video was to direct it to those who are really working on a budget or just didn’t want to rush out and buy a bunch of extra things until they knew they loved doing PBNs, (which we both know they will! 😊). I have GOT to get my palette knife now & use it for my update video. Once we are moved and settled.
I haven’t even started recording on mixing colors and blending yet. I enjoy the simplicity of PBN, and I’m trying so hard to keep it stress-free for myself & then I started overthinking and trying to blend and fix. I make myself stop sometimes & “be done”, or I will put more time into it than I intended. Thanks for your input!
waymire01 oh, and I have the empty paint pots too, and when I eventually do a blending video, I’ll be showing those. I do love the idea of you making them in advance! Love it!
@@MelanieBsCreativeStudio I messed up some paintings before I learned to to the entire thing as it is intended.. then evaluate for detail and blending. I don't blend per say, I mix transition colors and increase the resolution by adding them between areas that need a bit more transition sometimes one, sometimes more such as in a sky. Remember PBN is an impressionist style which uses visual blending vs super smooth transitions. Always evaluate a couple of feet away which is viewing distance, it's easy to get fussy when you are inches from the surface painting. Also keep in mind detail is in the foreground and backgrounds should be less distinct or you lose depth.
My Heart goes out to you for the loss of your Son.
Grace H. Thank you so much! You don’t know what that means to me 🙂.
Praying for you 🙏😌 sending lots if love
I’m sorry for the loss of your son. May God give you strength everyday. 🙏🏼😢
Wow...I really appreciate how informative you were about so many aspects of pbn. I only wish I would have seen your video pop up in my feed sooner. I have switched to using ultra fine tip paint pens in lieu of the paint pots because I got so discouraged by the results I was getting. I am super perfectionistic and the brushes and paint were just not allowing me to complete my project in the way I desired. You can just imagine how long it would take, and the money I would spend, to buy packs and packs of paint pens to try to find a close match. My paintings never came out exactly as pictured, but at least it was clean and precise...and color is all up to the individual anyway, I suppose. Your tips are super helpful. Thank you! I appreciate you!
Tina Rissell I appreciate you for telling me that! 🥰 I hope these tips save you a ton of money & time. We are supposed to be passionate about our art, and if it becomes more work than fun, then we lose our love for it. I really would love for you to let me know if you try these tricks & how they work out for you!
Can’t wait to use your tips on a custom paint by numbers I ordered. First timer here!!
Oh, I’m so excited for you! I hope you’ll love it!!
Thank you so much! I learned a lot from your video, I'm a bit confident now to start my painting by numbers❤. This is going to be my first time to paint ever😊.. My Dad and my sister are great painters and an 8 year old kid can perhaps do better drawing or painting than I😅. Thanks again and God bless you and ur fam🙏🥰.
I’m sorry for the delay in responding, but thank you so much for your thoughtful comment. It was so disheartening that this video was ruined with the audio. I’m so thankful you got something out of it although half of it was destroyed.
I am confident that you will feel successful with paint by numbers, and not because it is “easy”, but because I like to teach people how to feel successful at this hobby. Everyone has a gift, but some people have just not tapped into theirs yet. Maybe you haven’t had the confidence in yourself to realize your potential. Your project may start as a paint by number, but it may end as a work of art! 😍❤️
Be sure to join my Facebook group for extra inspiration and information. I have wonderful and encouraging members, and I try to be present there to offer support and advice as often as possible. You can find the link at Melanieb.info under the FB icon or on the tab for “Connect with Me”. ☺️
Awesome tutorial! I’m feeling a little overwhelmed about starting my first painting because of all the steps you need to follow. I’m excited as well. Like Diamond Painting, practice makes perfect.
So happy I was able to help!
Sorry about the audio issues in the second half. That is a new problem. The audio worked properly for years, and then the music artist claimed a copyright. When I tried to fix it, the new music was not applied properly, so I’m trying to produce a new version of this video soon. I’m sorry for the inconvenience, but I hope to have this situation resolved soon!
I am so happy to have found this video. I have fallen in love with paint by number. Finished 2 of them, but cannot wait to utilize some of your suggestions. A well done tutorial video!!
Thank you for the feedback!! 🥰🥰🥰
I have finished 2 already and going to start another
Nice!! It is addictive, isn’t it? 😂
OMG Melanie, I needed you yesterday but better late than never!!!
Thanks for all the good hints.
Thank you so much for the tips. It really helps me with my first project. Specially when you buy the right brushes; it goes on smoother.
Wow! Just... wow! Thank you for such a comprehensive tutorial! 😀
Thank you SO MUCH for that feedback!! 🥰🥰🥰 I am so happy when someone lets me know my videos have been helpful to them! ☺️
GREAT video. Thank you so much for the brush identification. Continual improvement is my goal.....
You are so welcome! Thank you for your positive feedback.
I apologize for the audio error. I tried to fix the issue, but I am going to attempt to resolve it by creating a new video entirely.
I appreciated this tutorial before startig my project without doing more research. I bought liquitex flow aid and used it a few times before reading the instructions (that's on me). Even though this helpful video suggested using the flow aid instead of water, the liquitex flow aid has instructions to dilute it with water before using it. I will comment again once I have done that, but using it undiluted, I've had to go back over darker parts of my project having used it undiluted on the first round. I'm not trying to criticize this person (& I purchased everything at Michael's, so it's not like she's gotten a Perk from my purchases); just sharing my experience with the products she is suggesting. Also, I used the other product she suggested to prime the canvas first so the paint would go over easier, and that hasn't been my experience. She said do a "light coat", so maybe my coat was too light. Again, my motivation isn't to hurt this person; just to offer my experience having used her video as a trusted guide. Happy Paintng friends!
I loved the video. I’m working on one that I wished I would of watched this before. My next will be much better. Thank you for all the tips
Karen Borka that is what I love to do and what I am here for! 🥰
Thank you so much Ive done paint by numbers since I was young I haven’t been able to paint for many years I wanted this Christmas to try to see if my hands will now let me paint again..I purchased for Christmas 2 Paint by numbers and they came on Canvas my heart went to my stomach As I’ve never seen them this way!! I’m so thankful I found you I’ve ordered the things I don’t have for canvas So that my paintings are thick like I’ve seen so many on Utube be!! I also was glad to know about some new paint brushes I have some great ones for my bisque I needed shorter brushes as you know and more detailed for a paint by number So Thank you for all give recommendations It was only 30.00 to add the clear and the thinner for the paint and the 2” paint brush along with one of the brushes you had I really liked the corner cut brush you showed got one of them..Thank you so much I take my paintings seriously and I take time in them and wanted to learn on canvas paintings So this was absolutely great tutorial a 10 hands down!! 🙌🙌🙌Have a blessed new year 2021 Sheila
I hope you enjoy the canvases! They are different, but I love them as much as the ones on the boards. I hope you love this hobby!
I absolutely love your videos. Thank you for all of your amazing tips!
Fantastic tips video. I'm completing my first adult pbn now and your tips are my tips! 1. Gesso; 2. Use flow improver; 3. Need good brushes! Thank you for posting this hope it helps a lot of people!
mercy mmee thank you for that comment & feedback!! I hope these tips help you save time & money. 😊 Please let me know how they work for you!!
Thank you for such an informative video!! ♥️ 🎨 🥰
Just starting to paint by numbers. Thank you for the great tips.
Thank you for watching 🥰...I hope you subscribed 😬...?
I definitely did subscribed. 🙂
Yeah! So helpful! I bought the Flow Aid, the medium white acrylic, the Sharpies and some Princeton paint brushes!! I forgot 🤪 to click on links this time but will do so next time!
Oh, that’s ok! I appreciate every little bit of support I can get. 😊
Very professional videos! You got me from the start!
Thank you so much!! I know I can be long-winded, so I never know what to edit out. Thank you for your feedback! 🥰🥰🥰
Thanks for all the great tips. I'm starting my first PBN and this video is fantastic information for a beginner. Lots of tips that I would not have thought of. Thanks so much.
Thank you for that feedback! 🥰 After you’ve done something for a while and then try to teach it, you wonder if you remembered everything you need to tell others. So happy this was helpful!!
So informative! Thanks! I take lots of notes when watching your videos!
That’s awesome that people want to actually remember what I teach them! 😂 ❤️❤️❤️
Best paint by number help video ever!
Oh, thank you for letting me know you enjoyed it! 🥰
Very nice discussion of pbn. I have discovered some of the tips on my own but learned lots of new tips.
That’s how I discovered mine, too...learning as I went along. I still feel like I could teach all day, but each person will come up with their own method of what works for them. That’s the way it should be! 😊
WOW! I am so happy that I found your channel!!! Super informative and detailed. Can't wait to start my project.
Thank you! 🥰❤️
Hi i prepped a smooth canvas with clear gesso and it smoothened the canvas and my paints were sliding on the canvas and took me a lot of time and effort to cover the spaces up😮
What brand of gesso did you use? That makes all the difference! Liquitex Clear Gesso or something similar has a “tooth” to it. It grips the paint, because it has a texture…almost a grit…and that is what makes it work so well.
Eagerly waiting for my first paint by numbers kit to arrive in the mail. Thank you for this tutorial, it makes feel a bit more prepared.
While you’re waiting, I have over 100 PBN videos to occupy you and help you to feel more prepared (I feel like a Paid Programming Announcer...”...but WAIT, there’s more!”) 😂😂😂 If nothing else, be sure to watch the gesso videos, mounting videos, and...well, just watch them all. 🤣 I’m so excited for you to start!
Also, you definitely want to join my Facebook group if you haven’t yet. That’s a “happy place” where everyone shares their work, asks questions, etc. I have an intro video at the top for you to watch when you join to help you navigate where I have info! facebook.com/groups/melanieb/
Hope to see you there!
Best video for paint by numbers thank you so much😍
Thank you for watching! I have a lot of more current videos too, so be sure to watch some of those. 🥰
Thanks for posting. Very helpful!
Thank you!! 🥰
Excellent video excellent advice all the things you say I have experienced but I'm not really a video person cos someone always knows more than me but your words are my thoughts while I paint thankyou
Thank you! I recorded this one so long ago, and I feel like I’ve learned and been able to share so much more information since then. I hope my videos (since this one) have been able to fill even more gaps that I may have left behind. ❤️
This was so helpful! I'm working on my first project since I was a kid. I was about to give up in frustration. These tips will definitely keep me going. Thank you!
I love to hear that!! Be sure to join the Facebook group, because there is so much love and support there too. You can share you work and get help with tricky situations. Here is the link: facebook.com/groups/melanieb/
😊
I know exactly how you felt. BUT I refuse to give up!🤷🏻♀️🙏🏼
Thank you so much for all of the information...I wish I had watched this a little while ago but better late than never!
This was very handy in starting me with paint by number. Thanks!
Wonderful!! Thank you for that feedback! 🥰
Thank you SO MUCH for your wonderfully detailed and thoughtful video! I just bought my first paint by number and I feel much more confident now.
Best and most useful tutorial I have seen, thank you
@Ela Kopp thank you so much for that feedback! 🥰🥰🥰
EXCELLENT tutorial - many thanks. I finally have some great tips from someone who really knows what they're doing and has done their 'homework' [research]. The gesso coating tip is my favorite because I hate the challenge of trying to fill in all those annoying little divots in the canvas, and how an uncoated one tends to absorb too much paint.
Yessss! You will have people say it is unnecessary, and I say “You do you, Boo Boo”, because I prefer to spend the 5-10 minutes on prepping with gesso than the extra 20+ hours repainting sections with “divots” and possibly not having enough paint to do so. Seems like it makes logical sense to me, but others will argue to the ends of the earth and back. 🤷🏻♀️
This video is 2 years old... but I'm wondering if I have already started my first PBN if I should go back and gesso what I haven't painted yet. I'm like 10% done, in a corner of the canvas. EDIT: Watched more videos and I can! Clear gesso right over the top!
Yes! 😂 I was asked that question a lot, hence the video after this one (which thankfully you found.) I’m glad you were able to have your question answered…I’ve been down with COVID for almost three weeks 😏, but I honestly clear gesso every, single canvas (not every board type painting) before I start. It’s been a game-changer for me! (You’ll see a lot of people argue this on groups, so I’ve done more gesso videos to demonstrate why I believe it helps, but it’s a personal decision, for sure!)
Super helpful video! Order everything you mentioned. Really excited to start my paint by numbers. Hope you keep making more helpful videos :)
Umer Raees THANK YOU for that wonderful feedback! I’ve been moving, so I’m running behind on recording, but I hope to be uploading lots of new videos soon. What kind would you like to see more of?
You have the best content, I love your channel! This video is one of the best ones for someone newish to pbn. Ordering the flow and gesso, and those brushes you recommended! 😊
Great tips... New to paint by numbers and will utilize your tips to hopefully be successful and continue to create
Hi! I’m happy you found my videos! I also have a FB group for paint by numbers and diamond painting enthusiasts. It’s listed in the description below the video. I’d love for you to join us!
Thanks for all those helpful Tipps 😃
Great Video. Greetings from Berlin/Germany 😊
Good morning from the south of the US! You are so welcome! 🥰🥰🥰
Gesso is a good option for dulling down the numbers and lines that show through lighter colours you can make it yourself and use any colour combinations depending on your most used colour in your painting it's like preparing a canvas with prepaint which professional artist use
How do you prepare Gesso ? Don’t have it my country
Hi you need pva glue some paint not to dark a colour and talcum powder go on CZcams for measurements but I just put same amount of each roughly mix to past and paint on.i found white was too see through so I use a hint of colour, not much or you'll never see your lines test a small bit first
I just bought one of these - so excited to start and so happy I found your video. This will help me a lot 💜.
I’m so excited for you!!
Thank you!!! I am working on a puzzle, abd I was thinking the next proyect should be this paint by numbers!! I get frustrated easily!!’ So, thank you for all the tips!!
Funny. I’m doing puzzle also. I have to rotate around or I get bored
Every time I get frustrated with one hobby, I switch to another one. That’s why I am involved in so many different hobbies. I’m sooooo ADHD!
“SQUIRREL!!” 😂😂😂
What a pleasure so much information thank you
Thank you!! 🥰🥰🥰 Be sure to watch my Newbie’s video and my Gesso videos next (if you can!) I have my videos in order of how I think they help on my Paint by Number playlist. czcams.com/play/PL-QwHEM8yi2x7s-14zCeyzAvmnAIHm4gk.html
Thank you, thank you, this was such a wonderful wealth of information. Please keep them coming and sharing your work .
Tammie Hilliker I know, I need to get better about completing and sharing. I work on so many at one time that I never seem to finish very many. 🤦♀️
Enjoyed your video, nice clear voice, sorry for your loss, take care
jorge sarduy thank you so very much! ☺️
Wonderful video with great tips! Thank you.
@Janine Wilkins, Thank you for your feedback!! ❤️❤️❤️
What a great instructional video! I felt like I was in the room with you. Thank you! I am subscribing.
Thank you for watching and subscribing!! I have over 100 more PBN videos to help you along the way. 😊
Thank you so much for linking this video Melanie! I accidentally ordered a paint by number thinking it was a diamond painting 🙃 and therefore want to try this out. I definitely am going to get the things you show in your video to help me along... like I need another hobby 😆. This looks like so much fun too!, thank you again for your videos, I truly am enjoying them and appreciate you and your craft. Thanks again, you are a very lovely lady. PS, I LOVE your Father Angel painting❤️
Thank you 🥰! I do both diamond paintings and paint by numbers, along with 50 other hobbies, so I feel ya! 😂
PS!....and where do I find a link that lists all your videos so I can keep learning? Thank you so much... you may be a lifesaver ...Living alone in lockdown here in UK!
Here is my channel home page: czcams.com/users/MelanieGilstrapCreativeStudio
At the top, you will see a row of options. Click on “Videos”, and it will show you every single video I have (over 400 😬), or click “Playlist”, and you can choose the Paint by Numbers only videos. ☺️
Great tutorial ...Thank you very much!
Thank you for watching and commenting! 🥰
Hi Melanie, I just wanted to thank you for all the tips and product recommendations. I've really improved my technique. Hope you have wonderful holidays. Robert.
Thank you!! I appreciate you watching (and I hope you subscribed 😬). You have a wonderful holiday too.
Really appreciate your videos as I am starting my first painting. Thank you.
Thank you so much for this video. I'm waiting on my first Paint by Numbers Kit, and I feel much better prepared to start now. Thank you!
That is so great to hear! I love this hobby, and I want everyone else to love it, too!
Great tips.....thank you for taking the time to explain in such detail! Good job! :)
Thank you so much! There is so much information to share, and I’m always afraid I’ll talk too much, and it will be overwhelming...or I worry I’ll forget something important. I guess that means I’ll just have to keep making videos, right? 😬😊