How to Diamond Paint? Complete Guide!

What is diamond painting?

Diamond painting , also called diamond painting , is a creative hobby inspired by embroidery and mosaic. It consists of placing small resin diamonds one by one on a pre-glued canvas printed with a pattern. Each symbol on the canvas corresponds to a specific diamond color .

This activity does not require any artistic skills . It is perfect for people who like to take their time , relax and create something with their hands. It is also appreciated for its calming and meditative effect .

The necessary equipment

To get started, a complete kit is enough. It contains:

• A printed adhesive canvas , with a legend of the symbols
• Bags of colored diamonds , round or square shaped
• An applicator stylus , or rhinestone pen
• Wax (or glue) to allow the stylus to pick up the diamonds
• A sorting tray , to make it easier to pick up diamonds
• A roller or a heavy book , to fix the rhinestones once the canvas is finished

Some add additional accessories like a storage box, a clamp, or an LED lamp, but this is not mandatory to get started.

The steps to follow to succeed in your diamond painting

1. Prepare your workspace

Place yourself on a flat , clean , well-lit surface . Unroll your canvas, and if it is too curved, place it under a heavy object for a few hours.

Don't remove the entire protective film at once ; peel it off in small sections. This prevents the glue from losing its grip or collecting dust.

2. Understanding the legend

On the side of the canvas there is a legend with the symbols , the color codes (often DMC references), and the correspondence with the diamond bags.

Before you begin, take the time to sort the bags . It is recommended to label them or use small storage bins or boxes. This organization will save you time and avoid mistakes.

3. Place the diamonds

Start by dipping the tip of the stylus into the wax . This makes it easier to pick up a diamond. Then:

• Identify a symbol on the canvas
• Find the matching color
• Catch a diamond with the stylus
• Drop it on the symbol , pressing gently

Work methodically , either by area or line by line. The further you go, the more the image takes shape.

4. Adopt good habits

For clean and precise work:

• Always reseal the film after use
• Do not touch the glue with your fingers
• Clean the stylus if necessary
• Lightly press the diamonds to secure them

Once an area is finished, you can run a roller or book over it to flatten the rhinestones and strengthen the adhesion.

5. Finalize your work

Once the canvas is completely filled:

• Roll or press with a heavy book
• Remove any dust or misplaced rhinestones
• Frame the canvas or glue it to a rigid support

Some people apply a clear varnish or setting spray , but this is not essential if the job is clean.

Round or square diamonds: which to choose?

Here is a simple comparison to guide you:

Round diamonds

• Easier to handle
• Ideal for beginners
• May leave small visible gaps

Square diamonds

• Sharper rendering, mosaic effect
• More technical questions to ask
• Requires more precision

Round diamonds are often recommended for starters . If you're looking for a challenge or a more precise finish, square diamonds are a good option.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Do not sort the diamonds before starting
• Touching the canvas with dirty fingers
• Open the entire canvas from the beginning
• Using too much wax in the stylus
• Working too quickly or without organization

Take your time , it’s an activity to be savored.

Creative ideas and inspirations

The possibilities are very varied. You can achieve:

• Animals , landscapes, flowers, portraits or mandalas
• A personalized photo (holiday souvenir, pet, wedding)
• Creations to offer: handmade gifts , framed works, or personalized objects (notebooks, bags, cushions)

There are many sites that offer to turn your own photo into a diamond painting kit, with varying levels of detail and sizes.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to finish a diamond painting canvas?
It depends on the format. A small canvas can take 6 to 10 hours. A medium canvas takes 15 to 30 hours. Very large formats can take 60 hours or more.

Is it suitable for children ?
Yes, from 6 or 7 years old. There are kits suitable for children, with larger diamonds, simple designs, and ergonomic tools.

How to store and display a diamond painting?
You can frame your work in a frame without glass, glue it to a rigid support, or varnish it. Exposure to open air will not alter the rhinestones if they are properly fixed.

Can I order a kit from a personal photo?
Yes, it's actually a popular trend. Simply send your photo to a specialist shop. Choose a sharp, well-lit image with few details for optimal results.

In summary

Diamond painting is a relaxing , rewarding , and creative hobby that's accessible to everyone. By following the steps in this guide, you can avoid common mistakes and maximize your experience.

Take the time to organize yourself well, choose a design that inspires you , and savor every moment spent applying the rhinestones.