Paint by Number {PBN} LEGIT OR SCAM Websites I Trust for 2020

COMPLETE LIST OF PAINT BY NUMBER COMPANIES COMPILED INTO ONE CONVENIENT LIST!

First let me start by saying "HAPPY NEW YEAR!"

I don't know about you, but for me, 2020 went by in a flash. Unfortunately for most of us, it wasn't our best year. The beginning of 2020 was when we all learned of the coronavirus/COVID-19 outbreak in China, and it was all downhill from there. In a short period of time, the virus covered the globe like a wave of destruction. Countries implemented lock-down and quarantines, with most of us going into isolation for the first time in our lives.

In February, I had to resign from a job that I loved as the manager of the Custom Framing Department at Michael's Arts & Crafts. I had been struggling for almost a year with some major health issues, so the resignation was devastating to me. I didn't want to leave my work-friends, customers and the job I felt like I was perfect for. I felt like I was leaving my "niche" behind.

I joined Farmasi Beauty as a Beauty Influencer in February, and I started making YouTube videos on makeup and skincare again after a long hiatus. I had more time on my hands than usual, so I decided to start recording more hobby-related videos for paint by numbers and diamond painting. That was when things "exploded"!

With "stay-at-home orders" in place in most countries, we all needed an outlet...something to keep us from the grips of depression, anxiety and stress. None of us were accustomed to being locked away from family, friends and the rest of the world. Simple hobbies seemed to become "life savers" for most of us. I know it saved me.

After searching for reputable companies to purchase my paint by numbers and diamond paintings, I ran across many amazing, legitimate companies to buy from...but I also ran across companies who were using the pandemic to scam consumers. That was when I made the decision to start a "Legit or Scam" series for paint by number shopping sites. I made it my goal to test companies and inform the public on who they could trust. This is when my relationships began to flourish with some of the most reputable companies, and I built long-term rapport.

I also recorded videos for each company individually, where I do an unboxing, first impression, review and swatch the paints. I am a huge believer in "keeping it real" with my viewers, so I am pretty candid when it comes to these videos. You can find at least one video (if not more) for each company I have mentioned. You can find those videos in my Paint by Number Youtube playlist.

Now that is where this video comes in...the consolidated list for 2020 for all of the companies I tried and reviewed for the entire year. This series started with a very short list of companies, but now we have a wonderful group of trusted shopping sites to order from. Here is the video, for those who don't want to read all of this post. Below you will find the links to the stores I discuss in my video:

Here is the complete list of sites with promo codes for the companies that have provided me with one.

"LEGIT" SHOPPING SITES:

• Aana Banana PROMO CODE: MELANIE

• AliExpress: Art World Store

• Canvas by Numbers

• Craft-Ease PROMO CODE: MEL-20

• Dimensions (PaintWorks)

• Every Daye Crafts

• FGNormal PROMO CODE: Melanie10%OFF

• Herrschners

• Kate's Moon

• Kimily (on Amazon)

• Kronictron (on Amazon)

• Masterpiece by Numbers

• My Paint by Numbers

• Norgeson (this company will not be selling online for the year 2021, but they will have other retailers selling their products)

• Opalberry (on Amazon)

• Paint by Numbers Shop

• Painting by Number Factory

• Paint Plot

• Pink Picasso Kits

• Schipper (on Amazon) (also see my Amazon Influencer Store links below to shop in your country)

• Winnie’s Picks PROMO CODE: MELANIE5

QUESTIONABLE WEBSITES (PURCHASE WITH CAUTION):

• GicAngel

• Original Paint by Number

• Tech-Crafty

• Victoria’s Moon

Here are my *NEW* Amazon Influencer stores where you can shop for some of the products and stores that I love!

** SHOP AMAZON INFLUENCER US **

www.amazon.com/shop/melaniebscreativestudio

** SHOP AMAZON INFLUENCER UK **

www.amazon.com/shop/melaniebscreativestudio

** SHOP AMAZON INFLUENCER CA **

www.amazon.ca/shop/melaniebscreativestudio

** Disclaimer: Some of the shopping links provided are affiliate links, which allow me to make a small commission on your purchases through the link. The purchase of these products helps me to continue to bring you videos. I will not ever recommend anything to you that I do not use myself! **

** AMAZON US ARTS, CRAFTS & SEWING ** (anything you purchase in this category):

** TOOLS I USED IN MY PBN VIDEOS **

** Melanie B's Digital-Printable-Reusable Swatch Guide: https://www.melaniegilstrap.com/product-page/printable-reusable-paint-swatch-guide

** Faber Castell : Clic & Go Foldable Water Pot & Brush Holder: Blue https://amzn.to/3chPPS4

** Faber Castell : Clic & Go Foldable Water Pot & Brush Holder: Lime https://amzn.to/2RO85sR

** Faber Castell : Clic & Go Foldable Water Pot & Brush Holder: Red/Orange https://amzn.to/2FYsPeM

** Tamiya Metal Stirrer: https://amzn.to/3pWQZJ9 or https://amzn.to/33rHd8z

** Farmasi SensiWipes: https://www.farmasius.com/melaniegilstrap/product/farmasi-sensi-wipes-makeup-cleaning-wipes/12130

** Detail Paint Brush Set- 5 Sizes with Triangular Handle for Detailing $11.99 https://amzn.to/2ZQ44ck

** Paint Puck: https://amzn.to/35ASvqL

** Meal Prep Containers Pack of 50: https://amzn.to/30BwHJl

** Liquitex Flow-Aid: https://amzn.to/2ZJJvwt

** PBN Log: https://www.melaniegilstrap.com/pbn

** DP Log: https://www.melaniegilstrap.com/pbn

In addition to all of the things I mentioned above, I also started a new Patreon Creator account. This is a place where you get personal attention, exclusive videos and content and much more, depending on the membership you select. Learn more about how to join me on Patreon!

I have also been posting on most social media platforms, so please be sure to follow me:

Patreon: https://Patreon.com/melaniegilstrap

Website: https://www.melaniegilstrap.com

BLOG: https://www.melaniegilstrap.com/blog

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/melanieb/

YouTube: YouTube.com/c/melaniegilstrapcreativestudio

Instagram: @melaniebgilstrap

Pinterest: @melaniebgilstrap

Thank you for joining me, and I hope you find this list helpful for your paint-by-number shopping endeavors!

FRAMING 101: Everything You Need to Know About Framing Your Paint by Number Artwork

This has been a hot topic on my Facebook group, so because I have a background in this subject, I decided to type up the information for you! This "Framing 101" post will cover everything from stretching the canvas yourself to custom framing and every option in between. So let's get started!

The most popular option for most PBN enthusiasts is to stretch the canvas themselves or to buy a "framed" paint by number to begin with. I tend to lean towards stretching my painting after it is complete, because I don't like to prop my hand on my canvas when it's stretched, because it can actually make the canvas loose.

STRETCHING YOUR OWN CANVAS:

I recorded the video on stretching your own canvas, because it really can be a lifesaver & a money-saver!

I mentioned in that video that none of the paintings are not actually 16x20", because they are in metric sizes and not standard measurements. It makes things a little more difficult for us to find the perfect frame for our artwork in the US.

“FLOOR FRAMES” TO DIY:

Once you stretch your canvas, it will be a “standard size” 16x20” or a 12"x16", and you will be able to find a “floor frame” to put it in. A “floor frame” just means you can buy one off shelf. (You won’t need the glass, so you can take that out...along with the backing board.) You need to find a frame with enough depth, so your canvas doesn’t stick out the back and show from the sides. You’ll need to purchase something called “offsets”. These are special brackets that screw into the back to hold the canvas in the frame. Have the custom framer help you determine what size you’ll need.

DRY MOUNTED PIECES:

You can dry mount your piece like I’ve demonstrated in this video. Once it is dry mounted, you have a couple of framing options.

This will allow you to take the piece on the board to be custom framed. It doesn’t have to be stretched on a stretcher bar if you have dry mounted it. The "Personal Designer" (this is the fancy, schmancy term for the custom framer) at Michael’s will measure the board as it is, and can custom frame your piece. (See information about glazing & custom framing) below. If you want to frame it with a “floor frame”, cut your piece down to the standard 16x20” size. The Personal Designer at Michael’s is NOT ALLOWED BY LAW to cut your piece down for you, as it is a liability if something went wrong or got messed up. You will have to do it yourself before you take it in. A dry mounted piece can go right into the frame (without glass). It should fit fairly well, since the glass and any filling materials will be taken out. You can’t use a cheap poster frame, because they aren’t deep enough to hold the foam board and backing material. If you want to custom frame the piece with a mat, follow the explanation below for Custom Framing.

CUSTOM FRAMING & HOW TO SAVE MONEY WHEN YOU CUSTOM FRAME:

Since I was the Custom Framing Manager at Michael’s, this is personally my favorite option! When you custom frame, you have hundreds of frame moldings as an option.

My first money-saving tip is to wait until they have a “70% off custom framing” coupon! When you get to the custom framing counter, you are allowed to go behind the counter and look at the frame moldings on the wall. (Did you know that? Yes! It’s true! I always invited my customers behind the counter to touch, feel and look and the details and weight of a frame they liked!)

** INSIDER PRICING TIP: on the side of each frame you will see a colored label. Yellow labels are the most affordable options of the custom frames. Green are the middle priced frames, and blue labels are the highest price (but are sooo worth it)!

Michael’s actually has frames that are specifically made for canvases if you like that style. There are also frames that are deep enough for your canvas to set down in without sticking out the back.

GLAZING??! (Also known as "Glass" or "Acrylic")

Glass or Acrylic is called “Glazing” in the framing world. There is a lot of “controversy” about whether your acrylic painting needs glass or acrylic. Here is what I was taught: NEVER use glass or acrylic with oil paintings, but an acrylic painting can go either way. The main thing to remember is: ASK YOUR PERSONAL DESIGNER AT MICHAELS TO INCLUDE SPACERS IF YOU WANT GLAZING! The glazing should NEVER touch artwork of any kind! When you mat a piece of art, the mat gives you space between the glazing and the artwork, so it’s “built in” spacing. But if you glaze an acrylic painting without a mat, it has to have significant space between the glazing and the art, or it can stick to the glazing over time.

Here are some samples of my customers' artwork (with their permission) that I designed and framed. The puzzles I am showing are dry mounted first, in order to keep them together while they're hanging on a wall. These are framed much like an acrylic painting (PBN) or a diamond art painting would be done. I had to use 1/8" to 1/4" spacers in between the glass and the puzzle on the ones that did not have a mat., since they had been sealed with Mod Podge. In addition, you'll notice the first example of the cottage on the water is designed with the regular glass that isn't anti-reflective. You may save a little bit of money with that option,, but if you upgrade the glass to Masterpiece, you see nothing but the ART! It's a huge visual difference for a small difference in price.

If you choose to “glaze”, I recommend ONLY MASTERPIECE GLASS OR ACRYLIC! They cost a little more, but they both are ANTI-REFLECTIVE and include UV PROTECTION. Masterpiece Acrylic is the “high-end” option, as it is lightweight and has a lifetime warranty against breakage. It does cost more though! On a 16x20, the piece won’t be super heavy, so you can opt for either MP Glass or MP Acrylic. Remember, you have a 70% coupon.

The “70% off custom framing” coupon is only valid if you have a frame in the bundle. So when you make your purchase, as long as the “bundle” includes a frame, it will give you the discount. The price they give you will also include them assembling the piece for you! It can take up to two weeks to receive it, but I don’t mind that, because I know it will be worth it. During this time of year, it’s not very busy usually and production is caught up.

So here is the breakdown:

• DIY Canvas Stretching $5 (or less if you already have your own staple gun and staples)

• You can use a standard floor frame if you stretched your paint by number canvas on a 16x20” stretcher bar or a 12x15” stretcher bar.

• If your piece is dry mounted, you can trim it down yourself to a 16x20, and it will fit in a “floor frame”. If you want to mat it, leave the excess border on the piece and get it custom framed with a double or single mat.

• Use a 70% OFF coupon to save the most money when you custom frame at Michael’s. It will be cheaper without glazing...but you can decide what you like best. (Remember, is you decide to use a glazing, Masterpiece Glass and Masterpiece Acrylic with SPACERS are the best options for preservation quality!)

I hope this post answers at least most of your framing questions, and you now feel more prepared and knowledgable when you are ready to frame your artwork!

Product Links for My Paint by Number 'Must-Have' Tools!

One of the most frequently asked questions I get are "Where did you get that...?!", so I have decided to compile a complete list of the products I use for the most successful outcome of my paint by number art. I don't mean to say you have to purchase EVERY SINGLE ITEM on this list, but I can tell you that I use them all frequently or every time I paint. They have saved me time & money...which during the pandemic is a welcome change!

I am also going to add a video links to some of these products, so you can see how to use them and get the most out of your purchases! (*NOTE: anything in bold orange below is an active link, so you can go directly to the shopping site.)

"MY BRUSHES ARE FRAYING! PLEASE HELP!"

When a member of my Facebook group mentioned that she used cosmetic wipes instead of baby wipes to clean off her brushes, I was skeptical. Since I sell Farmasi beauty products as a Beauty Influencer, I grabbed a pack of my Sensi-Wipes and gave it a GO! All I can say is WOW! My new brushes stayed "like new", and I was able to restore some of my older ones that had gotten frayed.

COSMETIC WIPES FOR CLEANING BRUSHES:

Farmasi SensiWipes Cosmetic Wipes $4.90 for a pack of 20

Here is the video where I demonstrate with these wipes.

"DO I REALLY NEED TO GESSO MY CANVAS FIRST?!"

CANVAS PREP: If you watch my YouTube videos, you probably already know that I am a HUGE believer in using clear gesso to prime my canvas before I start to paint. I will be doing a video on gesso FAQ's soon, but in the meantime, here is the link for my favorite clear gesso. I have included links for two different sizes, because you will use more than you think, and the 32 ounce bottle will be worth it if you decide you love this hobby and continue to paint.

"WHY DO I NEED THESE PAINT ADDITIVES?"

Flow-Aid is a MUST-HAVE item in my painting "arsenal". I absolutely use it EVERY TIME I PAINT to make the paints more creamy and helps them to move on my canvas without diluting them with water, which makes them too thin and transparent. Here is a video on the difference in all of these additives and when and how to use them.

PAINT ADDITIVES:

Liquitex Clear Gesso 8 oz or Liquitex Clear Gesso 32 oz (BEST value!)

Liquitex Flow-Aid

Liquitex Slow-Dri Blending Medium

FolkArt Floating Medium

Liquitex Basics Light Modeling Paste

"WHICH PAINT BRUSHES SHOULD I USE?"

I think paint brush recommendations are the next most popular question. I have done extensive "research" and trials by purchasing paint brush sets (with my own money, of course) and testing them while I am painting. (If only I could get all of the money back for the brushes I've bought...I'd be able to have a nice beach getaway with my hubby right now.) Here are the brushes that have been tried and tested and that I recommend for "budget conscience" artists.

Detail Paint Brush Set

PAINTBRUSH SETS:

Detail Paint Brush Set- 5 Sizes with Triangular Handle for Detailing

Detail Paint Brushes Set Artist Paint Brushes

Set of 10 Zenacolor Brushes

Disposable Set of 50 Brushes in size 00

INDIVIDUAL PAINT BRUSHES:

2” Wide Paintbrush for Gesso

Princeton Artist Brush Select Synthetic Brush Spotter Size 5/0

Princeton Artist Brush Select Synthetic Brush Petite Round Size 5/0

Princeton Artist Brush Select Synthetic Brush Petite Spotter Size 10/0

Princeton Artist Brush Select Synthetic Brush Petite Round Size 20/0

Artist Loft Roma all sizes available at Michaels

Princeton Select Chisel Blender Brushes in Size 12, 10, 8, 6, 4, 2

"HOW DO I CLEAN MY BRUSHES?"

As I am painting, I am rinsing my brush in a cup of clean water using a Paint Puck in the bottom on the cup. Then I wipe my brush off with the Farmasi SensiWipes Cosmetic Wipes that I listed above. Here are the other items I use to restore or condition my brushes:

BRUSH CLEANING, CONDITIONING AND RESTORING

All brush condtioners

General Brush Conditioner

"I HAVE A TRANSPARENT PAINT & THE NUMBER SHOWS THROUGH! WHAT DO I DO?!"

This is a very common question, and my answer is to white out your number first before painting with a Sharpie White WATER-BASED Paint Pen. It must be Water-Based, or it will repel the acrylic paint that goes over it.

Sharpie White Water-Based Paint Marker - Medium

Sharpie White Water-based Paint Marker - Fine

Liquitex White Heavy Body Acrylic Paint (if you have the Arteza set below, you won't need this)

"MY PAINTS WON'T COVER, OR THEY ARE DRIED OUT! WHAT DO I DO?"

I don't know what I ever did before I found the Arteza Acrylic Paint Set of 60! These have been a lifesaver...or a painting saver...or something like that. We have all gotten "crap" paints in our kits. Even the best kit will have a color or two that just refuses to cover well. That's where my Arteza Acrylic Paint Set comes in handy.

PAINT SETS:

ARTEZA Premium Acrylic Paint Set of 60 (this link will take you to their main site and you can purchase any of the Acrylic paint sets, and I will get credit.)

OR ARTEZA Premium Acrylic Paint Set of 60 (Amazon link)

Paint Stir Sticks at Chalk Couture (most of you know I am also a Designer at Chalk Couture, and these handy little spatulas work well for mixing and stirring paints!).

"I'M STRUGGLING TO SEE THE NUMBERS. WHAT DO I NEED TO HELP ME SEE BETTER?"

There are so many tools on the market for magnifying and lighting for art. When you select a light, be sure to get one that uses "white light" or "daytime light". That just means that it gives you the best brightness and clarity. You don't want a light that casts a warm tone, because it can cause you to strain your eyes. I personally use OTT Lites. There are lots to choose from, and my bulbs have lasted over 15 years now. If you need magnification, there are several OTT Lites that also include a magnifier.

OttLite L139AB 13 Watt Desk Lamp with Swivel Base, Black

OttLite W9437T-SHPR 18-watt Easy View, 62" x 0" x 10.5", Dove Grey Floor Lamp

Magnifying Lights on Amazon

"WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE, "MUST-HAVE" TOOLS?"

These little tools make life so much easier and more efficient while I am painting! Somany tools, too little time!

PAINT BY NUMBER TOOLS:

Paint Puck

Paint Puck Cleaner Rinse Cup

Frog Tape

Vertical 18 x 24 HDF Clipboard -OR-

Alvin Artist Sketch/Drawing Board (23x26”)

Tabletop/Floor Easel

Chalk Couture Spatula Stir Sticks Pack of 24

Disposable plastic eye Dropper

Kate Aspen Mini Glass Mason Jar with Lid (set of 12)

"HOW DO I ORGANIZE MY PAINT KITS AND CANVASES?"

I have recently done a video on this subject, and it is in the process of being uploaded to YouTube. There are so many wonderful storage solutions out there, but I will focus on my favorites, which are also very affordable!.

PBN KIT & CANVAS STORAGE:

Meal Prep Containers Pack of 15

Meal Prep Containers Pack of 50

200 Pcs 6x9 Clear Resealable Cello/Cellophane Bags

Chalk Couture Transfer Tote

""I'VE COMPLETED MY PAINTING! DO I NEED TO SEAL IT?"

I get asked if I seal my paintings. Well, as of today, I haven't sealed any paintings. I have read mixed reviews about whether it is necessary to seal them. Acrylic paint is a hearty type of paint, and therefore, it doesn't need as much protection as other mediums, such as, watercolors or pastels, etc. If you are going to seal your paintings, be sure to use a NON-YELLOWING sealant, or your painting may start to yellow over time. One of the group members recommended this one I have listed, but I have personally not used it.

SEALERS:

Krylon K01323000 Gallery Series Artist and Clear Coatings Aerosol, 11-Ounce, Satin Finish

Grumbacher Picture Gloss Varnish for Picture and Oil & Acrylic Painting

"HOW DO I FRAME IT?"

Since I am a huge believer in DIY projects, and since I was a Custom Framing Department Manager for Michael's Arts & Crafts for almost 2 years, I have quite a few opinions on this subject. You can 1) stretch your painted canvas on a canvas stretcher bar like I did in this video; 2) you can have your artwork custom framed (which may be my favorite method) and add a UV protective glass or acrylic with spacers or multiple mats; 3) you can frame it yourself with a frame off the shelf (you won't use the glass, because glass should not be up against the acrylic paint); 4) you can use the magnetic poster frame to display your artwork, which is a temporary solution but it quick, easy and affordable method!

FRAMING/STRETCHING SUPPLIES:

Fiskars Staple Gun

Fiskars Staples

16x20” Value Pack Canvas

12x16” Value Pack Canvas

Magnetic Poster Frame in various sizes

I hope this information has been helpful in order for you to find everything you need for your paint by number paintings! Be sure to join the Facebook group, where you can share your work-in-progress, completed projects or simply ask questions of other members. Diamond paintings are also welcome there :)!

Disclaimer: The shopping links provided are affiliate links, which allow me to make a small commission on your purchases through the link. This helps me to continue to bring you videos, but I will not ever recommend anything to you that I do not use myself!