Diamond painting is a relaxing craft that’s as addictive as it is satisfying. You can find a variety of kits at hobby and craft stores, as well as online. When deciding to try this trending art, it is important to know your materials and the essential tools you need for success. The more prepared you are, the less likely it is that your hour-long craft session will turn into an all-nighter!
Most diamond paintings begin with a photo, logo, design or other image that’s been digitized and printed onto a gridded canvas. These canvases are often accompanied by plenty of plastic drills that help create the mosaic, pixel-like version of the original photograph or design. This is one of the many reasons why it’s a good idea to choose an image that’s clear and well-defined, as this will provide you with the best results.
You’ll also want to make sure that the canvas is a good size for your project. Most craftsmen recommend choosing a 12” x 12” or 13” x 13” canvas, as these sizes will provide enough space for you to work comfortably.
Once you’ve selected your image and canvas, it’s time to assemble your other supplies. A typical kit will include a tracing sheet, a diamond bag with a color-coded chart, an applicator pen and wax, and a diamond tray. You’ll want to carefully read the instructions on the tracing sheet and follow the color-coded chart to place each diamond. Having all of these supplies ready will help you begin your masterpiece as soon as possible!
Before you begin placing your first diamond, take a moment to cover the canvas with its protective film. This will prevent it from getting dirty or damaged while you work. Next, use a rolling pin to gently go over the canvas and secure all of the diamonds in place.
After all of the diamonds have been placed, you can remove the film and admire your finished masterpiece! You’ll probably want to add a clear sealant to give your painting a professional finish, but this is optional. This step is especially important if you plan to frame your artwork.
While a standard drill pen is usually included in most diamond painting kits, it’s smart to purchase an upgraded one for comfort and efficiency. A higher quality tip and comfortable grip will help you avoid fatigue and frustration while working on your project. You may also want to consider acquiring extra drill storage bags or plastic containers if you plan on making this a long-term hobby.
While you enjoy your shiny new piece of art, be sure to keep it out of reach from children and pets. They may be tempted to play with the teeny drills and damage your hard-earned creation. Additionally, be sure to dedicate an out-of-the-way craft table in your home for your diamond painting, as it will need a lot of space to accommodate your supplies. When not in use, you can store your completed designs in plastic sleeves or three-ring binders. If you’d like, you can even trim your design and adhere it to a book cover for a unique and flashy look! diamond painting