You've finished your painting — congratulations! Now comes the equally satisfying part: turning it into wall art you'll actually be proud to display. Framing and displaying your paint by numbers properly makes a huge difference in how the finished piece looks, and it's easier than you might think.
Step 1: Let the Painting Dry Completely
Before you do anything else, make sure your painting is fully dry. Acrylic paint can feel dry to the touch within minutes, but a freshly completed canvas may still have thicker areas that need more time — especially if you applied multiple coats. Give it at least 24 hours before framing to be safe.
Step 2: Apply a Varnish or Sealant (Optional but Recommended)
A clear varnish protects your painting from dust, UV light, and moisture, and gives it a more polished, professional finish. You can choose between:
- Matte varnish — a flat, non-reflective finish that looks more like a traditional painting
- Satin varnish — a subtle sheen that adds depth without being too glossy
- Gloss varnish — a shiny, vibrant finish that makes colors pop
Apply varnish with a wide, soft brush in smooth, even strokes. Let it dry fully before framing.
Step 3: Choose the Right Frame
The frame you choose can make or break the final look. Here are a few things to consider:
Canvas vs. Paper Kits
Most paint by numbers kits come on canvas. Canvas paintings can be displayed in two ways: stretched over a wooden frame (called "gallery wrapping") or placed flat inside a standard picture frame. If your canvas came pre-stretched, it's ready to hang as-is. If it's an unstretched canvas, you'll need a frame with enough depth to accommodate it.
Frame Style
- Thin black or white frames give a modern, gallery-style look that works well with most subjects.
- Natural wood frames complement nature scenes, landscapes, and travel-inspired paintings beautifully — a great match for our travel poster designs.
- Gold or ornate frames suit portraits and classic subjects, adding an elegant, timeless feel.
Frame Size
Measure your canvas carefully before buying a frame. Standard canvas sizes (like 40x50cm or 16x20") are easy to find frames for. If your canvas is a non-standard size, look for adjustable frames or consider having one custom-made.
Step 4: Mount or Stretch the Canvas
If your canvas is unstretched, you have two options:
- Stretch it yourself over a wooden stretcher bar frame — these are available at most art supply stores and give a clean, gallery-wrapped look.
- Mount it flat inside a deep-set picture frame, securing the edges with tape or staples at the back.
If you're not confident doing this yourself, most local frame shops offer canvas stretching and mounting services at a reasonable cost.
Step 5: Hang It in the Right Spot
Where you hang your painting matters as much as how you frame it. A few tips:
- Avoid direct sunlight — UV rays will fade acrylic paint over time, even with varnish.
- Hang at eye level — the center of the painting should sit roughly 145–150cm (57–60") from the floor.
- Group smaller paintings together for a gallery wall effect — a great way to display multiple completed kits.
- Consider the room's color palette — a painting with warm tones will stand out beautifully against a neutral or cool-toned wall.
Display Ideas Beyond the Wall
Framing isn't the only option. Here are a few creative ways to display your finished painting:
- Easel display — prop it on a decorative easel on a shelf or mantelpiece for a casual, artistic look.
- Gift it — a framed paint by numbers makes a deeply personal and meaningful gift, especially a custom portrait.
- Create a series — complete several kits with a similar theme (travel scenes, botanicals, animals) and display them together as a cohesive collection.
Start Your Next Masterpiece
Ready to paint something new to add to your collection? Browse our Custom Paint by Numbers Kits and find your next project. And if you're still working on your technique, our beginner's guide and mistake-fixing tips are great places to start.
0 comments