paint by number

Numbered section artwork

Paint by number is a method of creating artwork by filling in pre-outlined sections with colors corresponding to numbered instructions.

The technique lets anyone produce a recognizable picture without artistic skill.

Figuratively, paint-by-number (often hyphenated) describes anything formulaic or requiring no creativity: a paint-by-number approach to filmmaking, paint-by-number pop songs.

Related
  • kitGrouped supplies, one purpose
  • canvasHeavy woven cloth
  • brushesBristled implements for grooming
  • acrylicSynthetic resin or fiber
  • hobbyRecreational leisure activity

craft · beginner · stay inside the lines · outline · fill · colors · relaxing · Bob Ross · sections · guided · artwork · leisure · therapeutic · pigment · arts and crafts · easel · instructions · frame

Categories
Opposites
creative freedom

paint by numberfreehand

Drawn without mechanical aids

abstract expressionism · original composition · freestyle · action painting · spontaneous creation

artistic skill required

paint by numbermasterwork

Supreme creative achievement

fine art · oil painting · portrait painting · realist painting · Renaissance art

authenticity and artistic value

paint by numberoriginal artwork

First authentic creative work

one-of-a-kind · masterpiece · high art · genuine article

Family

paint, number, paints, painted, painting, painter, paintings, painters, painterly

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G