The Biggest Complaints Paint-by-Number Customers Have—and What They Actually Care About

As we began researching the paint-by-number space more deeply, one thing quickly became clear: customers are remarkably consistent about what frustrates them. Across reviews, forums, social media groups, and product feedback, the same concerns come up again and again—regardless of brand, style, or subject matter.

What’s equally interesting is what doesn’t come up nearly as often.

Price, for example, is rarely the main complaint. Instead, paint-by-number customers tend to focus on three core issues that directly affect their experience from the first brushstroke to the final framed piece: paint quality, canvas presentation, and shipping speed. Understanding these pain points says a lot about what people truly value when they invest their time and creativity into a kit.

1. Poor Paint Quality

By far, the most common frustration we’ve seen is inconsistent or low-quality paint. Customers regularly mention paints that are too transparent, require multiple coats, arrive partially dried, or don’t match the reference image. For many painters—especially those new to paint by number—this can turn what should be a relaxing, satisfying experience into something discouraging.

Paint quality matters because it affects everything: coverage, color accuracy, ease of use, and confidence while painting. When paints behave unpredictably, it pulls attention away from the joy of the process and places it squarely on problem-solving. It’s no surprise that experienced paint-by-number users consistently say they would rather have fewer colors that perform well than a large palette that struggles to cover.

Paint Pots on a Numbered Canvas

2. Folded or Creased Canvases

Another frequent complaint is canvases that arrive folded. Even when technically “fixable,” creases can distract from the finished artwork and create unnecessary frustration before painting even begins. Many customers note that once a canvas is creased, it never truly disappears—especially in detailed areas or when the piece is eventually framed. I can tell you with first-hand experience that ironing did not ever get the creases out of a folded canvas I purchased. It was so frustrating!

Paint-by-number kits are often purchased with the end goal of displaying the finished artwork. A canvas that starts its journey with hard folds works against that goal. It’s clear from customer feedback that painters care deeply about presentation and longevity, not just the act of painting itself.

Rolled Mitten Masterpiece Acrylic Canvas

3. Slow or Unclear Shipping

Shipping delays are another consistent theme. Customers often express confusion around long processing times, limited tracking updates, or unexpected waits before their kit even enters the mail stream. While most people understand that handmade or thoughtfully produced items may take time, uncertainty is what causes frustration.

When shipping timelines aren’t clear, excitement turns into doubt. Paint-by-number kits are often purchased as gifts or as something to look forward to—and long, unexplained delays can undermine that anticipation.

What’s Not Complained About as Much: Price

One of the most surprising insights from reviewing customer feedback is how rarely price is mentioned as the primary issue. While everyone appreciates value, paint-by-number customers don’t seem to be chasing the lowest possible price. Instead, they’re looking for a kit that feels worth their time.

When paint quality is reliable, canvases arrive in good condition, and the overall experience feels thoughtful, customers are far more forgiving—and often appreciative—of a higher price point. Many even express that they expect better materials and care when a kit costs more.

This aligns closely with how we think about paint by number at Mitten Masterpiece. Our goal isn’t to be the cheapest option—it’s to create kits that feel intentional, well-made, and satisfying from start to finish. When quality, care, and transparency are prioritized, price becomes part of the story rather than a point of friction.

What These Complaints Really Tell Us

Taken together, these common concerns reveal something important: paint-by-number customers value experience over bargains. They want paints that behave beautifully, canvases they’re proud to work on, and a process that feels smooth and respectful of their time.

Listening to these voices has shaped every decision we make—from how we test paints and choose canvas materials to how we think about packaging and fulfillment. Because when someone sits down to paint, the last thing they should be worrying about is whether the materials will hold up.

Paint by number, at its best, should feel calm, rewarding, and worthy of the finished piece it becomes.

❤️ With love from Michigan,
Bobbie