Diamond painting is a mosaic craft where you press tiny sparkling drills onto a printed, sticky canvas to build a picture. This guide is for beginners who want to know what a kit contains, how to choose one and how to finish a painting step by step. You will also find a size chart, tips for staying organized and answers to the questions new crafters ask most.
Every kit ships free worldwide with a velvet canvas, AB drills and all the tools.
Shop diamond painting kitsWhat is diamond painting
You follow symbols printed on the canvas, pick up a drill of the matching color with a wax-tipped pen and press it into the glue. Square by square, the image appears as a shimmering mosaic. No drawing or painting skill is needed.
It is easy to start because everything is guided. You only need a flat surface, good light and some time. Many crafters enjoy it as a relaxing way to unwind, and it makes a thoughtful gift.
What is in a kit
Every All Diamond Painting kit is a 5D full drill kit on a soft velvet canvas, with poured glue under a clear protective film and symbols printed on the canvas. The drills are acrylic resin, about 2.5 mm, and every kit includes at least 2 colors of AB (iridescent) drills.
- The printed canvas
- Pre-sorted drills with spares
- 2 drill trays
- Tweezers
- 2 diamond painting pens
- A 3-piece multi-placer
- 2 pots of wax
- Instructions
Sizes larger than 30 x 40 cm ship in a box.
Types of kits
Kits differ in drill coverage, drill shape and design source. Knowing the options helps you choose a project you will enjoy finishing.
| Choice | Option A | Option B |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Full drill: every part of the canvas is filled for a complete mosaic | Partial drill: only parts of the design are filled, so it finishes sooner |
| Drill shape | Square: crisp mosaic and sharp detail | Round: quicker to place with extra sparkle |
| Design | Ready-made designs in every theme | Custom kit made from your own photo |
Most designs come in square or round. Beginners often like round for its speed, while square suits portraits and detailed scenes. Read full drill vs partial drill for a closer comparison.
Choosing a size
A canvas has about 16 drills per square cm, so size changes both detail and time. Larger canvases capture more detail but take longer.
| Size | Approx. drills | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 20 x 20 cm | 6,400 | Beginners and quick projects |
| 30 x 40 cm | 19,200 (about 10 to 15 hours) | Hobbyists and a balanced first project |
| 40 x 50 cm | 32,000 | Detailed scenes for confident crafters |
Match the size to your free time and to the wall space you have. Start small if you are unsure, then move up once you enjoy the process.
Buying a kit
Buy from a seller that shows clear photos of the kit, lists what is inside and offers tracked delivery. Check that drills are pre-sorted, the canvas has printed symbols and spares are included.
- Shipping: free worldwide with tracking. Orders are processed in 2 to 3 business days (custom kits 3 to 5).
- Typical delivery: USA 12 to 20 days, Canada 14 to 20, UK 14 to 25, Australia 13 to 20.
- Savings: buy 2 kits and save 10%, buy 3 and save 15%, applied at checkout. Code 16OFF gives 16% off once per customer.
Browse the animals collection, Christmas kits or our best sellers to find a first design.
How to paint with diamonds
- Set up your space. Pick a flat table with good light, away from pets and small children. Unroll the canvas and let it lie flat; heavy books on the corners help.
- Lay out your tools. Put the trays, pen, wax and tweezers within reach.
- Uncover a small area. Peel back only the film you will work on so the glue stays sticky.
- Pick a color. Match a symbol to its bag, tip a few drills into the tray and shake them flat.
- Pick and place. Dip the pen in wax, lift one drill and press it straight onto its symbol.
- Work in sections. Finish one area or one color before moving on.
- Press firmly. When done, roll gently over the surface or press by hand to seat every drill.
Sealing and framing
Sealing is optional but locks drills in place before you hang the piece. Use a brush-on or spray craft sealer in thin even coats and let it dry fully.
Then frame it. A frame protects the surface from dust and shows off the sparkle. Our sealing and framing guide covers each step.
Organizing your supplies
A tidy setup keeps colors from mixing and speeds you up.
- Keep drills in their labeled bags until you use them.
- Use one tray per color and tip out small amounts.
- Store pens, wax and tweezers in a small container.
- Keep spare drills sorted for later repairs.
Need more tools? Browse our diamond painting supplies.
Where to display it
A finished painting works almost anywhere you want a little shine.
- Living room: hang it above the sofa as a focal point and match its colors to your decor.
- Bedroom: a calming scene above the bed or a dresser.
- Home office: a bright piece can lift a workspace.
- Kids' rooms: cheerful animal or cartoon designs.
- As a gift: custom kits turn a family photo into a keepsake.
Useful tips
- Start with a kit you love. You will place thousands of drills, so choose a design you enjoy.
- Take short breaks. Stretch your hands, neck and back during long sessions.
- Cover the glue. Put the film back when you stop for the day.
- Use the right light. A bright lamp makes similar shades easier to tell apart.
- Fix mistakes early. Lift a wrong drill with tweezers and replace it.
- Keep going. Progress feels slow at first and fast near the end.
Read how to avoid hands, neck and back pain for comfort tips, and common mistakes and fixes if something goes wrong.
Frequently asked questions
What is diamond painting?
It is a craft where you press tiny resin drills onto a sticky, printed canvas, following symbols that match each color. The result is a sparkling mosaic picture.
Is diamond painting good for beginners?
Yes. The canvas tells you exactly where each color goes, and no drawing skill is required. A small canvas is a good first project.
How long does a diamond painting take?
A 30 x 40 cm canvas has about 19,200 drills and usually takes 10 to 15 hours. Time depends on size, drill shape and how long you paint each day.
Do I need glue?
No. The canvas already has poured glue under a clear protective film, so drills stick as you press them down.
Should I choose square or round drills?
Square drills give a crisp mosaic and sharper detail, while round drills are quicker to place and sparkle more. Most designs offer both.
Can I make a diamond painting from my own photo?
Yes. Our custom kit starts from $20.95, includes a free design preview before printing and has 917 reviews averaging 4.9.
Pick a design you love and you can start placing your first drills as soon as it arrives.
Buy 2 kits and save 10%, buy 3 and save 15%, applied at checkout.
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