Do you want to turn your creativity into cash? Painting numbers can be a fun and profitable way to earn extra money. Whether you’re painting house numbers on curbs or creating beautiful artworks to sell, there are simple steps you can follow to start making money. Let’s explore how you can transform your hobby into a rewarding venture.
The U.S. market size for house painting and decorating contractors was $18.6 billion in 2022, and it continues to grow. The industry experienced a steady annual growth rate of 3.8% from 2017 to 2022. As of 2025, there are over 180,000 house painting and decorating contractors in the U.S., highlighting the demand for painting services. U.S. consumers use over 1.4 billion gallons of paint each year. A completed paint-by-number kit titled “The Last Supper” by artist Dan Robbins sold for over $250,000 at an auction in 2018. There are over 140 million homes in the United States, which means there’s always a need for painting services.
1. Creating High-Quality Paintings
Making high-quality paintings is the first step to earning money from your art.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Pay attention to the details in your paint-by-number kits. This ensures your artwork looks professional. A place where you can find these kits includes Figured’Art.
- Add Personal Touches: Don’t be afraid to make the painting your own. Add unique elements or use different techniques to stand out.
- Enhance Presentation: Frame your paintings or apply a varnish. This protects your art and makes it more appealing to buyers.
2. Preparing Your Artwork for Sale
How you present your artwork can make a big difference.
- Include Detailed Descriptions: Share important details like the title, size, materials used, and when you completed it.
- Disclose the Nature of the Work: Be honest if your painting is based on a kit or an original piece. This builds trust with buyers. As Robert Kiyosaki emphasizes, transparency is key to building strong relationships.
- High-Quality Images: Take clear and well-lit photos from different angles. Good pictures help your artwork get noticed online.
3. Choosing the Right Platforms to Sell
Picking the best place to sell your art helps you reach more customers.
Online Marketplaces
Platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Amazon Handmade are great for selling art. For more information on where to sell your artwork, you can explore 13 Best Websites for Selling Art in 2025.
Comparison of Online Marketplaces
| Platform | Fees | Audience Reach | Seller Support |
| Etsy | Listing fee + Transaction fee | Large global audience | Strong community and resources |
| eBay | Insertion fee + Final value fee | Huge user base | Extensive seller tools |
| Amazon Handmade | Referral fee | Access to Amazon customers | Support from Amazon services |
Just like diversifying investments is crucial in finance, spreading your art across different platforms can expand your reach and increase sales opportunities.
Social Media
Use platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your art and sell directly to people who follow you.
Local Venues
Consider selling at art fairs, local markets, and galleries. Meeting customers in person can create strong connections.
4. Pricing Your Artwork Effectively
Setting the right price helps you make money while staying competitive.
- Calculate Expenses: Add up the cost of materials, time spent, and any extra costs like framing.
- Research Market Trends: Look at what similar artworks are selling for to decide on a fair price.
- Choose a Pricing Strategy: Decide whether to set a fixed price or accept offers. See what works best for you.
Robert Kiyosaki teaches that understanding the value of your assets is key to financial success. Pricing your artwork effectively ensures you’re not undervaluing your talent.
5. Marketing Your Paintings
Good marketing helps more people see your art.
Build an Online Presence: Create a website or portfolio to showcase your work. You can create niche websites to market and sell your artwork by following Niche Website Ideas.
Utilize Social Media: Post regularly and interact with your followers. Share behind-the-scenes looks at your process.
Engage in Communities: Join art groups or forums to connect with other artists and potential buyers.
6. Exploring Additional Income Opportunities
Adding more ways to earn can boost your income.
- Sell Original Artwork: Create your own unique paintings to sell.
- Offer Commissioned Pieces: Paint custom works based on clients’ requests.
- Teach Painting Classes: Share your skills by teaching others, either in person or online.
- License Your Artwork: Allow your art to be used on products or media for royalties.
As Robert Kiyosaki would say, having multiple streams of income secures your financial future.
7. Joining Affiliate Programs
You can earn passive income by partnering with companies.
- Sign Up for Affiliate Programs: Find paint-by-numbers companies that offer affiliate programs.
- Promote Products: Share your special affiliate link on your website or social media.
- Earn Commissions: Get a percentage of sales made through your link.
8. Developing a Business Plan
Having a plan helps you stay organized and reach your goals.
Key Components of a Business Plan: Set clear goals, identify your target market, outline marketing strategies, and manage your budget for supplies and expenses.
Robert Kiyosaki emphasizes that a well-thought-out plan is your roadmap to success.
9. Improving Your Skills
Better skills can lead to better art and more sales.
- Practice Regularly: Keep painting to improve.
- Seek Feedback: Listen to what others say to learn and grow.
- Expand Your Knowledge: Take classes or watch tutorials to learn new techniques.
Continuous learning is a cornerstone of success, as Kiyosaki often highlights.
10. Diversifying Your Income Streams
Having multiple ways to earn money makes your income more stable.
- Sell Prints and Merchandise: Offer prints or put your art on items like mugs and t-shirts.
- Create Digital Downloads: Sell digital versions of your art that people can print themselves.
- Collaborate with Other Artists: Work together to reach more people.
Just as diversifying investments reduces risk, expanding your income sources can provide financial security.
11. Legal Considerations
Knowing the rules keeps your business safe.
- Copyright Awareness: Make sure you have the right to sell your art, especially if it’s based on a kit.
- Business Licensing: Check local laws about selling art.
- Tax Obligations: Keep records for taxes and know what you need to pay.
12. Balancing Time and Commitment
Manage your time wisely to keep your business healthy.
- Set Realistic Goals: Don’t take on too much at once.
- Establish a Routine: Create a schedule for painting and business tasks.
- Prioritize Tasks: Focus on activities that bring the most benefit.
Robert Kiyosaki teaches that time is one of your most valuable assets. Managing it wisely can lead to greater productivity and success.
13. Staying Motivated and Passionate
Keep your love for art alive.
- Celebrate Achievements: Be proud of your successes.
- Connect with Other Artists: Join groups for support and ideas.
- Keep Learning: Stay updated on new trends and keep improving.
By following these simple steps and tips, you can turn painting numbers into a profitable business. Focus on creating quality artwork, present it well, and use different ways to sell and promote your art. With hard work and a good plan, you can make extra money doing something you love. As Robert Kiyosaki would say, turning your passion into profit is a rewarding venture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I really make money by painting numbers?
Yes, you can! Many people have turned their painting hobbies into successful side businesses. By creating high-quality art and marketing it well, you can earn extra income. You can explore more about how others have started similar ventures with a small investment in the article A Simple Side Business You Can Start for Under $40: Painting House Numbers.
2. Do I need special skills to start?
You don’t need to be a professional artist. Paint-by-number kits are designed for all skill levels. With practice and attention to detail, you can create beautiful paintings.
3. How do I price my paintings?
Consider the cost of materials, the time you spent, and compare with similar artworks on the market. It’s important to set a fair price that values your work and appeals to buyers.
4. Where can I sell my paintings?
You can sell online on platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Amazon Handmade. Social media sites like Instagram and Facebook are also great for reaching customers. Don’t forget local options like art fairs and markets.
5. What legal things should I be aware of?
Make sure you have the rights to sell your paintings, especially if they’re based on a kit or someone else’s design. Always be honest with buyers about the nature of your work. Check local laws about running a small business and pay any necessary taxes.
By taking these steps, you’re setting yourself up for success. Remember to enjoy the process and keep creating art that you’re proud of. Good luck on your journey to earning extra money by painting numbers!