How to Turn a Photo into a Paint-by-Numbers Kit
Table of contents
- Quick answer
- Before you start: choose the right photo
- Step-by-step: turn your photo into a paint-by-numbers kit
- Size, aspect ratio & pixel guide
- Picking a color count (realism vs time)
- Backgrounds: simplify, blur, or remove?
- Portrait & pet specifics
- Common mistakes (and easy fixes)
- Finishing & framing tips
- Why use Paintby.ai
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Quick answer
To turn a photo into paint by numbers, pick a clear, well-lit image with a simple background, match your canvas size and aspect ratio, choose an appropriate color count (more colors = more realism), approve a preview, and order your kit. For portraits and pets, prioritize sharp eyes and even lighting.
Before you start: choose the right photo
Use this 7-point checklist:
- Subject clarity: 1–2 main subjects; avoid busy crowds.
- Lighting: Bright, even light; no harsh shadows or blown highlights.
- Focus: Eyes sharp for people/pets; no motion blur.
- Background: Simple or softly blurred—keeps detail budget on the subject.
- Composition: Head-and-shoulders crops work great for faces.
- Resolution: Phone photos are fine if well-lit; avoid heavy zoom/crops.
- Rights: Use images you own or have permission to use.
Pro tip: If you’re unsure, pick two or three alternatives (tight portrait, wider crop, different lighting) and compare previews.
Step-by-step: turn your photo into a paint-by-numbers kit
- Upload your image
Choose JPEG/PNG with the best available resolution. - Set canvas size & aspect ratio
Match the canvas shape to your photo (see chart below). - Choose color count
More colors = smoother gradients and finer detail, but more hours. - Tidy the background
Simplify, soften, or remove clutter to keep attention on the subject. - Preview & adjust
Compare crops, tweak brightness/contrast, ensure key features aren’t cut off. - Confirm materials
Rolled or pre-stretched canvas; include brushes if you need them. - Approve & order
Double-check names/dates if it’s a gift; confirm size and orientation.
Size, aspect ratio & pixel guide
Match the canvas to your photo shape to avoid awkward cropping.
| Canvas size (common) | Aspect ratio | Good for | Suggested minimum pixels* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40×50 cm | 4:5 | Pets, portraits, balanced detail/time | ~2400×3000+ |
| 50×70 cm | 5:7 | Couples, landscapes, décor pieces | ~3000×4200+ |
| 60×80 cm | 3:4 | Statement wall art, maximum realism | ~3600×4800+ |
| Square (30×30 / 40×40) | 1:1 | Single subject, centered | ~2000×2000+ / ~3000×3000+ |
*These are comfortable minimums for clean mapping; bigger files are always welcome.
Picking a color count (realism vs time)
- 24 colors: Faster finish; great for simple scenes and minis.
- 36 colors: Natural skin/fur gradients; ideal for most portraits.
- 48 colors: Highest fidelity; best for complex lighting, long hair, and patterned fur.
If you must stay small, increase color count. If you go large, you can balance both size and colors.
Backgrounds: simplify, blur, or remove?
- Simplify: Tone down busy elements so the subject pops.
- Blur: A soft backdrop gives portrait vibes without going fully blank.
- Remove: For clean, modern looks—especially with multiple subjects.
Portrait & pet specifics
- People: Favor head-and-shoulders; ensure catchlights in the eyes; avoid sunglasses for primary portraits.
- Pets: Fill the frame with the face; tilt slightly for personality; watch for dark fur against dark backgrounds—add separation.
- Couples: Get faces on similar planes so both stay sharp; soften clutter behind.
Common mistakes (and easy fixes)
- Busy background stealing detail → Crop tighter or simplify background.
- Underexposed image → Increase exposure and contrast; avoid murky midtones.
- Blurry eyes → Choose a different photo or sharpen slightly before preview.
- Harsh color cast (neon lights, tungsten) → Neutralize warmth/coolness in preview.
- Awkward crop → Reframe to protect hair/ears/fingers; leave breathing room.
Finishing & framing tips
- Work light-to-dark, large-to-small shapes.
- Keep paint creamy (not watery) for crisp edges.
- For whiskers/eyelashes: use a liner (5/0–10/0); blend soft edges with a filbert.
- Let the piece cure, then hang stretched or place in a float frame for a gallery look.
Why use Paintby.ai
- From photo or from an idea: Upload your image or describe a concept and preview variations until you love one.
- Made to fit your project: Choose from mini to large canvases and 24/36/48-color options for your realism/time balance.
- Everything in the box: Pre-printed, numbered canvas, matching acrylics, and quality brushes—so you can start right away.
- Smooth ordering: Clear previews, straightforward checkout, and options for rolled or pre-stretched canvases.
FAQs
What photo resolution do I need?
Aim for at least ~2400 px on the short side for a standard 40×50 cm canvas; go higher for larger sizes.
Can I use a phone photo?
Yes—modern phones are great if the shot is bright, sharp, and not heavily zoomed.
How do I pick size vs color count?
If detail matters (faces, fur), go bigger or choose more colors. For quick gifts, 40×50 cm / 24–36 colors is a solid balance.
Can I remove the background?
Absolutely. A simple or blurred background often improves clarity and realism.
Do I need extra brushes?
A trio—round (1–2), flat (4–6), liner (5/0–10/0)—covers almost everything. Add a filbert for smooth blends.
Conclusion
With the right image, paint by numbers from photo is straightforward: match size and aspect ratio, pick a color count that fits your time and realism goals, simplify the background, and approve a clean preview. When you’re ready to turn a photo into paint by numbers, build your custom kit with Paintby.ai and enjoy watching your favorite moments take shape—one number at a time.