Hands hanging a vibrant landscape paint by numbers painting with a lake and forest scene in a cozy living room.

From Canvas to Wall: A Guide to Using Paint by Numbers as Home Decor

Article Summary

This guide, written by founder William Murdock, reframes paint by numbers as a legitimate and stylish home decor solution for Canadian homes. It provides practical advice on choosing kits that match your interior design style, creating impactful gallery walls, and using single large canvases as statement pieces. Learn how to select the right frame, plan your layout, and transform your handmade project into beautiful wall art that personalizes your space.

You’ve placed the final brushstroke, sealed your work, and your paint by numbers masterpiece is complete. The feeling of accomplishment is wonderful, but the journey isn't over. Now comes the most rewarding part: transforming your creative project into a stunning piece of wall art that brings personality and style to your home.

Many people think of paint by numbers as just a hobby, but I see it as a direct path to creating personal, meaningful home decor. This guide will show you how to think like an interior designer and display your finished work with the pride and prominence it deserves.


Step 1: Choose a Kit That Complements Your Style

The first step to creating great wall art is choosing a design that fits the room it will live in. Think about the existing colour palette and mood of your space.

  • For Modern & Minimalist Spaces: Look for bold designs with clean lines. Our Abstract Collection is perfect for adding a splash of colour without overwhelming a simple aesthetic.
  • For Cozy & Traditional Homes: Timeless themes work best. A beautiful piece from our Scenery & Landscape Collection or a classic from the Famous Art series adds warmth and sophistication.
  • For Personal & Sentimental Decor: Nothing is more personal than your own memories. A Custom Paint by Numbers kit of a family photo, a pet, or a favourite travel spot becomes an instant conversation piece.

Step 2: Create a Gallery Wall to Tell a Story

A gallery wall is a fantastic way to display multiple pieces and create a high-impact feature. Your handmade art can be the star of the show.

A stylish gallery wall in a modern home, featuring a mix of 3-4 framed paint by numbers paintings.

Tips for a Great Gallery Wall:

  • Create a Theme: Group paintings with a similar theme (e.g., all landscapes, all florals) or a consistent color palette.
  • Mix and Match Frames: Using a variety of frame styles (black, white, natural wood) adds visual interest and a curated, eclectic feel.
  • Plan Your Layout: Before hammering any nails, lay your framed pieces out on the floor. Arrange them until you find a composition that feels balanced and dynamic.

Step 3: The Statement Piece - One Canvas, Big Impact

Sometimes, a single, powerful piece of art is all you need. A large-format paint by numbers can be the perfect focal point for any room.

A beautiful living room where a single, large framed paint by numbers painting hangs as the central focal point above a sofa.

  • Go Big: A larger canvas (like a 50x60cm or bigger) has the scale to anchor a room. Hang it above a sofa, a bed, or a fireplace mantel.
  • Choose a Bold Design: This is the place for your most intricate, detailed, or colourful masterpiece. Let it be the star.
  • Frame it Right: A high-quality frame is essential for a statement piece. Our DIY Wooden Frame Kit provides a clean, gallery-wrapped look that lets the art speak for itself. For more details on framing, check out our step-by-step framing guide.

William Murdock, Founder & Creative Head of Paint On Numbers Canada

About the Author

This guide was written by William Murdock. With a passion for both art and interior design, William believes that the best home decor is personal, meaningful, and handmade.

Find Your Next Centrepiece

Ready to create a piece of art that's uniquely you and perfect for your home? Explore our collections and find the design that will complete your space.

Explore All Kits
Back to blog