Why Paint by Numbers is the Perfect Winter Activity
Paint by numbers is the perfect cozy activity for the cold season. Spark creativity, and unwind from daily stress with this enjoyable and simple hobby.
Have you ever tried something completely new and found yourself so absorbed that time just slipped away? For me, that “something new” was painting by numbers.
At its core, paint by numbers is exactly what it sounds like: a canvas pre-printed with a design, divided into sections labeled with numbers that correspond to specific paint colors. You don’t need any prior experience, just a willingness to try.
I gave it a go after searching for a creative outlet for ages. I’d considered sports, graphic design, even coding, but those all felt too overwhelming or stressful to learn after long workdays. Then a colleague suggested paint by numbers—it had helped her manage stress. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try.
My First Painting
The first design I chose was a vase filled with vibrant yellow, red, and white flowers. I’d never painted before, and at first, it felt clumsy. Staying within the lines wasn’t as easy as I expected, and I doubted how it would turn out.
But before I knew it, hours had passed. I’d completely zoned out, focusing entirely on one section at a time. There were no distractions, no worries about what I hadn’t done that day, or what awaited tomorrow.
I just was—in the moment, with a brush in my hand.
By the time I finished that first painting, it wasn’t just about the result (though hanging it up was a proud moment); it was about the experience itself. I’d found something that gave me joy and allowed me to unwind in a way I didn’t know I needed.
Why Paint by Numbers Works So Well
Painting, even as guided as paint by numbers, has so many benefits:
- Stress Relief: The repetitive, detailed process is calming and meditative, allowing you to quiet your mind.
- Improved Focus: It requires concentration, which can help you get better at honing in on tasks in other areas of life.
- Encourages Creativity: Though you’re following a template, it’s still a creative process. You see a design come alive with your own hands.
- Helps You Slow Down: In a fast-paced world, it’s rare to truly pause. Painting teaches you patience and to appreciate the process, not just the outcome.
- Perspective on the Big Picture: Working on tiny, seemingly disconnected details only to see them form a cohesive masterpiece can mirror how we approach challenges in life.
For me, painting in the evening is when I feel the most relaxed. I put on some soothing music, light a candle, and enjoy the process. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a hectic day.
Ready to Start?
If you’re curious to try it, I’ve linked the beginner-friendly paint-by-number kits here. Choose a design that resonates with you, settle in with a cozy setup, and let your brush lead the way!
Whether it’s the cold season or just a regular weeknight, paint by numbers is one of those rare activities that feels fulfilling and restorative all at once.
