Diamond Painting Vs. Paint By Numbers: Which Relaxing Craft Should You Try?

Do you want your hands busy without much technical skill? Start with diamond painting. Ever wanted to try painting but felt nervous about a brush? Paint by numbers gives you a gentler way in. Not sure which the recipient would prefer as a gift? A smaller mini diamond painting kit or mini paint by numbers kit is a low-risk way to let them try either craft first. Can't decide? Keep both going at once. 

Whichever one you choose, research suggests you're making a good choice. A 2024 study in Frontiers in Public Health, led by researchers at Anglia Ruskin University, surveyed more than 7,000 adults and found that people who'd done at least one arts and crafts activity in the past year reported a stronger sense that life is worthwhile than those who hadn't.  
 
Separately, a Drexel University study measured cortisol before and after a 45-minute art session and found stress hormone levels dropped in 75 percent of participants, regardless of any prior art training. The American Art Therapy Association is clear that structured creative work under a trained therapist is its own clinical practice, though a relaxing kit still offers a low-pressure way to spend an hour away from a screen. 

Whichever Canvas You Pick, Your Next Relaxing Project Is Waiting 

There's no single winner in diamond painting vs paint by numbers, only the craft that fits how you like to spend a quiet evening. Pressing sparkling drills into place sounds satisfying? Order your first diamond painting kit, sized for a first project. Would rather feel a brush in hand and watch real paint bring a picture to life? Pick up your first paint by numbers kit and start with the first stroke. Either way, you end up with a piece you made yourself, ready to hang somewhere you'll see it every day. 

FAQs 

What is the difference between diamond painting and paint by numbers? 

Diamond painting uses small resin drills on a sticky, numbered canvas, while paint by numbers uses acrylic paint applied with a brush. That's the core difference between diamond painting vs paint by numbers. 

Which is easier, diamond painting or paint by numbers? 

Diamond painting's usually easier for a beginner, since it needs no brush control. Paint by numbers takes more hand steadiness, but it's still approachable for first-timers. 

Which is more relaxing? 

Both feel relaxing, though in different ways. Diamond painting offers a steady, repetitive rhythm, while paint by numbers gives a slower, more tactile experience. 

Which lasts longer as finished wall art? 

Both hold up for years when you care for them properly. Diamond paintings keep their sparkle once sealed, and paint by numbers canvases keep their color once they're dried and kept from sunlight. 

Which is better for kids vs adults? 

Diamond painting suits younger kids better, since there's no wet paint to manage. Paint by numbers suits adults and older kids who enjoy brushing on real paint. 

What supplies does each craft need? 

A diamond painting kit needs its canvas, resin drills, an applicator pen, wax, and a sorting tray. A paint by numbers kit needs its canvas, numbered paints, and brushes. 

Which is cheaper to start? 

Standard kits start close together, at $29.95 for paint by numbers and $39.95 for diamond painting. Custom kits flip that order, though, with custom diamond paintings cheaper at $29.95. 

Can you get custom kits for both? 

Yes, both crafts offer custom kits made from your own photo, whether it's a portrait, a pet, or a travel picture, turning a memory into a numbered canvas or a diamond mosaic. 

Which is better for beginners? 

Diamond painting's often the gentler starting point, with no brush technique to learn first. Paint by numbers kits still use clear numbered outlines so beginners don't feel overwhelmed. 

Can I do both diamond painting and paint by numbers? 

Plenty of hobbyists keep a kit of each going at once, since the two crafts use a pretty different kind of focus.