Paint by number kits are a delightful way to unwind and tap into your creative side. With a canvas mapped out by numbers and corresponding paint colors, all you need to do is follow the guide to create a stunning masterpiece. But what happens when your paint starts drying out? Don’t worry this is a common issue, and there are numerous ways to restore your paint and get back to painting.
Why Does Paint Dry Out?
Acrylic paint, the most commonly used type in paint-by-number kits, dries out when exposed to air. The water in the paint evaporates, causing it to harden. This can happen if the lids aren’t tightly sealed after each use or if the paint has simply been sitting for too long. While dried-out paint can seem like the end of your art session, there are some easy fixes to rejuvenate it.
Methods to Rehydrate Paint-by-Number Paint
-
Add a Few Drops of Water: One of the simplest methods is to add water directly to the dried-out paint. Start with a few drops and gradually mix the water in. Use a toothpick or small stirrer to mix the paint until it reaches a smooth consistency. Avoid adding too much water at once, as this can dilute the paint, making it less vibrant.
-
Use a Paint Medium: If water doesn’t seem to do the trick, or if you’re looking for a more reliable solution, you can use an acrylic paint medium. Paint mediums are specially designed to thin out acrylic paint without losing the richness of color. Just add a drop or two of the medium to the dried paint, and mix it thoroughly.
-
Warm Water Bath: For stubbornly dried paint, try using a warm water bath. Place the paint pots in a shallow dish of warm water. The heat will help soften the paint and make it easier to mix again. However, avoid submerging the entire paint pot—just let the bottom sit in the water.
-
Glycerin Solution: Glycerin, a common ingredient found in many art supply stores, can be an excellent way to restore dried acrylic paint. Add a very small amount of glycerin to the paint, and mix thoroughly. Glycerin helps retain moisture, preventing the paint from drying out too quickly in the future.
Preventing Paint from Drying Out
Now that you know how to restore dried paint, it’s also helpful to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some tips to keep your paint fresh:
-
Seal Tightly After Each Use: Ensure the lids on your paint pots are closed tightly after every painting session. A tight seal will keep air out and help retain moisture.
-
Store Paint Properly: Keep your paint in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can cause the paint to dry out more quickly. If you’re working on a long-term project, try storing your paints in an airtight container or zip-lock bag between sessions.
-
Use Plastic Wrap: Before closing the lid on each paint pot, place a small piece of plastic wrap over the opening. This creates an additional barrier against air exposure, further helping to prevent paint from drying out.
-
Work with Smaller Amounts: Instead of leaving the paint pot open while you work, try transferring a small amount of paint onto a palette. This reduces exposure to air and keeps the rest of the paint fresh.
What to Do if Paint is Beyond Saving?
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, paint can dry out beyond repair. In this case, don’t fret—many paint-by-number companies offer replacement paint sets for your kit. Reach out to the company you purchased from to inquire about replacement options.
Additionally, you can purchase small tubes of acrylic paint at local craft stores or online. Match the colors as closely as possible to those in your kit, and continue your artwork without much disruption.
Keep the Creativity Flowing
Dried-out paint can seem like a frustrating setback, but with a little patience and creativity, you can easily get back to your painting project. Whether you choose to rehydrate the paint with water, add a paint medium, or purchase new colors, there’s always a solution. Follow the preventative tips to keep your paints fresh in the future, and continue enjoying the soothing and satisfying process of paint by numbers!
