🧵 Top 20 Diamond Painting Tips for Beginners (writtenExperts!)

🧵 Top 20 Diamond Painting Tips for Beginners (writtenExperts!)


🧵 Top 20 Diamond Painting Tips for Beginners (written Experts!)

Whether you're just starting your first kit or you're on project #10, diamond painting is as relaxing as it is addictive. But like any creative hobby, it helps to know a few expert tricks before you get halfway through and realize your drills are upside down 😅.

To save you time (and frustration), The Sparkle Nest tracked down 8 Pro-Diamond Painters and asked them to give us their top 20 fool-proof tips and tricks for beginners!


1. ✅ Start Small

Begin with a canvas that’s 30x40 cm or smaller. You'll finish it faster and stay motivated to start your next one.

➡️ Shop Our Beginner-Friendly Kits


2. 🟠 Choose Round Drills First

Round drills are easier to handle and place — perfect for getting used to the process. They don’t need perfect alignment like squares.

➡️Stay organized with our Diamond Painting Organizers


3. 💡 Use a Light Pad

A light pad under your canvas improves visibility of symbols and helps reduce eye strain.

➡️ Explore Our Light Pad Accessories


4. 🖊️ Try a Multi-Placer (Carefully)

Great for large color blocks! Just make sure your drills line up — crooked placement is a common mistake.

➡️ Get a Multi-Placer Pen Tool


5. 🧼 Label Your Drills

Use small containers or labeled zip bags to keep your drills organized by color or symbol. All the diamond painting kits sold by The Sparkle Nest contain a free tray, applicator pen and glue! 


6. 🧻 Peel Plastic in Sections

Section off the top plastic cover into smaller areas. Only peel what you're working on — it keeps the canvas clean and sticky. Try our Release Tape!


7. 🔁 Unroll Canvases Correctly

Always unroll your canvas with the design facing outward to prevent creasing or bubbling. Secure it with our high quality washi tape!


8. 🟣 One Color at a Time

Focus on one color in one section before moving on. This keeps things tidy and reduces mix-ups.


9. 💕 Keep Wax Fresh

If your pen stops picking up drills, the wax might be dirty or old. Clean it out and refill as needed.

➡️ Pick Up Extra Wax Pads


10. ✂️ Use Washi Tape

Washi tape helps you section your canvas and protect sticky edges from dust and pet hair.

➡️ Add Washi Tape to Your Kit


11. 🧃 Use a Tray with a Spout

A tray with a pouring spout lets you return extra drills easily and without mess. Psst...All the Diamond Painting  kits at the Sparkle Nest come with a free tray, glue and pen!


12. 🪑 Get Comfortable

Use a table or lap desk that supports good posture. A sore back kills the vibe real quick.

➡️ Try our Diamond Painting light pads with stands!


13. 🖌️ Seal Your Work

Use mod podge or clear sealant when finished to lock your drills in place — especially if you’re framing it.


14. 🔍 Check the Print Before Starting

Make sure all symbols are clearly printed. If anything is blurry or missing, contact the store before starting.


15. 🐾 Protect Your Canvas from Dust & Pets

Keep the cover sheet on when not working. Cat hair loves sticky canvas more than you love your drills 😸

➡️Shop Diamond Painting Release Tape Here


16. ✨ Use Tweezers for Fixes

Tweezers are great for removing misaligned drills without damaging the canvas.

➡️ Metal Tweezers Included in This Kit


17. ⬜ Try the Checkerboard Method

Alternate spaces in big color blocks to help drills fit tighter and reduce gaps.


18. 📱 Use a Tracker App

Apps like GemFlow let you log canvas sizes, DMC codes, and track your progress.


19. 📦 Store Canvases Flat or Roll Carefully

Store finished canvases in a portfolio


20. 💗 Don’t Rush — Enjoy It!

Diamond painting isn’t just about the result. It’s a calming, creative process. Enjoy the journey, not just the finish line.


🛍️ Ready to Start?

Here’s everything you need to begin or upgrade your toolkit:


💬 Your Turn!

Have a diamond painting tip of your own? Share it and tag us on Instagram @TheSparkleNest to show off your progress and we might feature your art next!

Back to blog