You don’t have to be an expert painter to create a beautiful work of art. Why, you ask? Because inventive options like paint by number kits exist. Over the years, most of us have tried our hand at this easy-to-follow craft at least once. Whether or not our results are professional-grade, paint by number provides an accessible way to embrace creative energy. While many of us have experienced paint by number, most are unaware that Detroit is the birthplace of this unique innovation in crafting and at-home art. Read on for a brief history of paint by number, which boasts roots right here in the Motor City.

There’s something breezy and fun about crafting a low-pressure paint by number piece. After all, these simplified works of art require amateur artists to paint designated areas using predetermined colors.

Most paint by number kits come with tiny containers of paint, so at-home artists are never without the colors they need to create their own masterpieces. This process results in a real sense of accomplishment.

The history of paint by number kits can be traced right back to the Motor City. In 1950, they were dreamed up by a local engineer and business owner named Max S. Klein, who operated Detroit’s Palmer Paint Company.

In conjunction with commercial artist Dan Robbins, Klein developed the first official paint by number kit and established a brand known as Craft Master. Over the years, the company sold a whopping 12 million kits.

While patents for paint by number technology can be traced as far back as 1923, Klein and Robbins were the first to follow through with mass production. For many, the kits represented an introduction to creativity.

Over the years, other art and toy companies followed suit with the introduction of their own paint by number products. It’s because of this inspiration that many of us have tried our hands at paint by number.

Today, history buffs can check out early works of paint by number from the Palmer Paint Company by exploring a collection at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.

Whether you’re a longtime paint by number enthusiast or even a casual admirer, there’s nothing better than learning about another Detroit-based treasure. Might we suggest bringing out the paintbrush in homage?

Did you know the history of paint by number before checking out our piece? Are you surprised to learn that this fun family activity has roots right here in Detroit? We’re always eager to hear from our readers, so share your own paint by number experiences by leaving a Facebook comment. Don't forget to tell us about another unique piece of Motor City history that should be written about by completing our official nomination form.

Looking for another dose of local history? Read about the last remaining authentic log cabin in Detroit.