Save Money on Custom Paint by Numbers: Compare Top Services
Table of contents
- Quick answer
- Definitions: creator vs. generator vs. maker
- Who each option is best for
- Comparison table (features & value)
- How to choose: 8 criteria that matter
- Mini-reviews: strengths & trade-offs by category
- Why many shoppers start with Paintby.ai
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Quick answer
If you want a zero-hassle, gift-ready kit, choose a paint by numbers creator (you upload a photo or prompt an idea, they ship a full kit). If you want free or low-cost files to DIY, choose a paint by numbers generator (software that outputs a pattern and color map). A paint by numbers maker sits in between—often a store or tool that can generate a pattern and sometimes sell you a matching kit. Most people who plan to display the finished art prefer creators; hobbyists who enjoy tinkering or already have paints often love generators. New to paint by numbers? Our comprehensive guide for adults covers everything you need to know to get started.
Definitions: creator vs. generator vs. maker
- Paint by numbers creator (kit service): End-to-end service for custom kits. You upload a photo (or describe an idea), pick size and color complexity, approve a preview, and receive a complete kit (pre-printed canvas, numbered acrylics, brushes; optional framing).
- Paint by numbers generator (software/app): Converts your image into a numbered outline and palette you can print. You source your own canvas and paints, or buy them separately.
- Paint by numbers maker (hybrid): A service or tool that creates patterns like a generator but may also offer optional printed canvases or kits. Think “DIY first, with upgrade paths.”
Who each option is best for
| Goal | Best choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Gift-ready, minimal setup | Creator (kit) | Arrives complete and hangable; guided previews; consistent results. |
| Lowest cost / DIY supplies | Generator (software) | Free or low-cost files; you control materials and budget. |
| Tinker + optional print/kit | Maker (hybrid) | Start with a file, upgrade to printed canvas or kit later. |
| Maximum realism for portraits/pets | Creator | Higher color counts, image touch-ups, proofing, quality controls. |
| Learning & experiments | Generator | Iterate fast; great for trying different subjects/styles. |
| Specific frame/style needs | Creator or Maker | Choose stretched/rolled; easier to match décor. |
Comparison table (features & value)
| Feature | Creator (Kit Service) | Generator (Software) | Maker (Hybrid) |
|---|---|---|---|
| What you get | Full kit: pre-printed canvas + paints + brushes (+ optional frame) | Digital pattern + palette (print yourself) | Pattern file; sometimes printed canvas or kit add-ons |
| Realism options | Choose color count (e.g., 24/36/48); photo review & edits | Adjustable detail, but final quality depends on your printer/materials | Varies; often mid-range detail with optional upgrades |
| Ease of use | Easiest: open box, start painting | DIY difficulty: printing, scaling, materials, color matching | Moderate: some DIY, some done for you |
| Total cost | Higher upfront, fewer surprises later | Lowest upfront, more time/tools needed | Middle; à la carte upgrades |
| Turnaround & shipping | Made-to-order; shipping times vary by region | Instant download | Instant file; shipping only if you add printed items |
| Best for | Gifts, décor, heirloom pieces, first-timers who want polish | Budget projects, experimentation, crafters with supplies | DIYers who want flexibility and occasional pro help |
How to choose: 8 criteria that matter
- Subject complexity (fur, faces, city lights need more colors or larger size).
- Size & aspect ratio (match your photo; bigger canvases make tiny shapes easier). For detailed guidance on sizes, check our canvas size comparison guide.
- Color count (more colors = smoother gradients/realism, but more hours).
- Preview control (crop, background simplify/removal, palette tweaks).
- What’s included (canvas type, paints, brush quality, frame options). Learn more about materials in our canvas vs paper comparison.
- Time & patience (mini ~4–8 hrs; standard 12–20; large 20–40+).
- Budget (creators cost more but bundle everything; generators shift cost to your materials).
- Finish & display (pre-stretched canvas = easiest to hang; paper prints need matting/glass).
Mini-reviews: strengths & trade-offs by category
1) Creators (custom kit services)
Why people choose them: Convenience, consistent materials, and display-worthy results—especially for portraits and pets.
Strengths: Guided previews, canvas sizes from mini to large, adjustable color counts, ready-to-paint kits, optional framing.
Trade-offs: Higher price; made-to-order lead time; fewer opportunities to “hack” the pattern yourself.
2) Generators (software-only)
Why people choose them: Free or inexpensive way to make your own paint by numbers from a photo. Great for experimenting and for crafters who already own paints/canvases.
Strengths: Instant files, lots of iterations, full DIY control.
Trade-offs: You’ll handle printing/scaling, pick paints, and manage color matching. Realism depends on your settings and materials. For comprehensive DIY guidance, see our DIY paint-by-numbers kit creation guide.
3) Makers (hybrid)
Why people choose them: Start with a generator-style file, then add printed canvases or kits as needed.
Strengths: Flexibility and à la carte upgrades (e.g., printed canvas, extra brushes).
Trade-offs: May lack the deep preview/proofing of top creators; quality can vary by add-on.
Why many shoppers start with Paintby.ai
Paintby.ai combines the ease of a creator with the creative freedom of a generator. You can:
- Upload a photo or describe an idea and preview variations until you love the look.
- Pick canvas size (mini to large) and color complexity (choose the realism/time balance).
- Receive an all-in-one kit—pre-printed canvas, numbered acrylics, and quality brushes—with optional framing.
- Enjoy a smooth workflow: clear previews, straightforward ordering, and a satisfying, display-ready finish.
Short on time? Choose a pre-stretched canvas so you can hang your custom piece the day you finish.
FAQs
Is a creator always better than a generator?
Not always. Creators are best for gifts and display-ready art. Generators are perfect for budget projects and experimentation.
How many colors should I pick for a portrait?
Most portraits look natural at 36+ colors. If you choose a smaller canvas, consider increasing the color count to preserve detail.
Do I need special brushes?
A solid trio—round (1–2), flat (4–6), liner (5/0–10/0)—covers almost everything. Add a filbert for smooth blends.
Will a generator’s file work on canvas?
Yes. Print the pattern to scale, transfer to canvas, or tape a paper print to a board. Expect more setup time than a creator kit.
What size should I choose for pets and people?
40×50 cm is a great starting point; go 50×70–60×80 cm for maximum realism (or higher color counts).
Conclusion
Choosing among a paint by numbers creator, generator, and maker comes down to budget, time, and how you want to display the finished piece. Creators deliver the easiest, most consistent path to gift-ready art; generators maximize flexibility and learning; makers offer a middle ground. When you’re ready to turn a photo—or a fresh idea—into art you’ll be proud to hang, explore our guide to personalized paint-by-numbers gifts for more inspiration, or build your custom kit with Paintby.ai.