5 Best Color by Number Books for Adults
Color by number books for adults are a simple, joyful way to unwind. They offer a chance to relax, clear the mind, and create something beautiful. From intricate mandalas to peaceful landscapes, there’s something for every mood. But my personal favorite? Pixel art color by number—a nostalgic twist that combines creativity with a touch of retro charm.
There are different types of color by number books. Some focus on detailed illustrations like flowers or animals, while others feature modern mandalas or patterns for mindfulness. Then there’s pixel art color by number, where every square is carefully colored to reveal a pixelated masterpiece. It reminds me of old computer games, blending relaxation with a satisfying, digital-like style.
As a fan of pixel art, I find it both calming and playful. The process feels meditative—filling tiny squares one by one until the bigger picture appears. If you haven’t tried pixel art color by number yet, you’re missing out on a unique creative experience. With that in mind, I’ve rounded up the 5 best color by number books for adults, loved by coloring enthusiasts everywhere. Let’s dive in!
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1. 100 QUEST Color By Number
Available in White and Black Background Editions
100 QUEST Color By Number by Sunlife Drawing is a fantastic choice for anyone who enjoys creative relaxation and puzzle-like surprises. This book features 100 unique designs, each created with mosaic grids—squares, triangles, hexagons, and circles—that gradually reveal hidden images as you color.
You can choose between two editions: the black background version, which makes colors pop and gives a bold, polished look, or the white background version for a cleaner, more traditional coloring experience. Both editions share the same detailed designs and a simple 22-color palette, making them accessible and fun for all skill levels.
Reviewers love the variety of shapes and the excitement of uncovering mystery images. The black background option is especially praised for hiding any minor mistakes, while the white version allows for vibrant, lighter finishes.
Whether you’re a fan of color-by-number books or trying them for the first time, 100 QUEST Color By Number offers hours of stress-free, rewarding creativity. Just grab your favorite pencils or markers, and watch these hidden masterpieces come to life!
📕 Get your copy: white edition, black edition
2. Brain Games – Color by Number: Stress-Free Coloring
Spiral-Bound
Brain Games – Color by Number: Stress-Free Coloring is a perfect choice for adults looking to unwind and enjoy a calming, creative activity. Featuring 27 detailed images to color, each page includes a numbered color key swatch under the picture for easy reference. With its spiral-bound design and perforated pages, this book is user-friendly and allows you to easily remove your completed artwork for display.
What makes this book stand out is the partially pre-filled colors, which help you finish pages more quickly while maintaining a polished look. Reviewers appreciate the variety of images, including calming landscapes, animals, and abstract designs, making it enjoyable for any mood. The paper quality holds up well with colored pencils, though markers may require placing a protective sheet behind the page to avoid bleed-through.
This book is highly praised for its stress-relieving qualities, with users finding it both therapeutic and engaging. The pre-set color palette eliminates guesswork, making it ideal for beginners or anyone who struggles with choosing colors. If you’re looking for a simple, relaxing way to unwind, Brain Games – Color by Number offers a delightful mix of ease and creativity.
3. Kalysky Color by Numbers Adult Coloring Books
Set of 3 Books: Flowers, Nature Landscapes, and Animals
The Kalysky Color by Numbers Adult Coloring Books is a fantastic set offering three distinct themes: Flowers, Nature Landscapes, and Animals. Each book contains 20 detailed designs with numbered sections and reference color samples, making it easy to relax and enjoy the creative process.
One standout feature is the thick, high-quality paper, which works well with colored pencils and reduces the chances of bleeding when using markers. Customers appreciate the variety of images, noting they strike the perfect balance—detailed but not overwhelming, making the books suitable for both beginners and experienced colorists.
The included color charts and reference samples help guide you, though some users mention the charts are small and numbers remain slightly visible after coloring. Despite this, many find these books incredibly beneficial for reducing anxiety and stress.
If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift or a way to relax and unleash creativity, the Kalysky Color by Numbers set offers excellent value with hours of enjoyable, stress-free coloring.
4. Creative Haven Around the World Color by Number
Travel the Globe Through Coloring
Creative Haven Around the World Color by Number is a perfect pick for those who love to combine creativity with wanderlust. This book features 46 intricate illustrations of iconic cities, landmarks, and stunning landscapes from all around the world, including New York, Paris, Dubai, and Greece. Each scene comes with lightly printed numbers and a color key, making it easy to bring each location to life with realistic shading and vibrant effects.
The book’s perforated, single-sided pages are ideal for removing and displaying your finished artwork. The reference images on the inside covers allow you to follow a pre-set palette, or you can customize the scenes with your own colors for a personal touch. Users praise the variety and detail of the illustrations, although some mention the numbers can be small and hard to read for those with vision challenges.
Perfect for hard-colored pencils, the designs are detailed enough to keep experienced colorists engaged without being overwhelming. Whether you’re dreaming of travel or simply want a calming, rewarding hobby, Creative Haven Around the World Color by Number offers a globe-trotting artistic escape from the comfort of your home.
5. Color by Number Patterns
Color by Number Patterns by Jade Summer is an excellent choice for anyone looking to unwind with creative, stress-free coloring. Featuring 50 unique designs of geometric, floral, and abstract patterns, this book provides hours of meditative coloring that is easy to follow and incredibly satisfying.
A standout feature is the simple 30-color chart, which uses clear labels like “light blue” or “dark green.” This makes it easy to pick the right shades while still allowing flexibility for personal creativity. The single-sided pages with black backing prevent bleed-through, which is ideal when using markers or gel pens. However, some users note that the paper is thin, so placing an extra sheet behind the page is recommended.
Many reviewers praise the book for its balance of simplicity and detail, making it perfect for all skill levels. The patterns are intricate enough to keep you engaged without feeling overwhelming. Users also find this book particularly helpful for anxiety relief and mindfulness.
If you enjoy patterns and want a relaxing way to express your creativity, Color by Number Patterns offers a frustration-free experience that is both enjoyable and therapeutic.
Tips for Getting the Best Results with Color by Number Books
- Choose the Right Tools
Invest in high-quality colored pencils, fine-tip markers, or gel pens. Colored pencils allow for smooth shading, while markers provide bold, vibrant results. If you’re using markers, consider putting a blank sheet of paper behind the page to prevent bleed-through. - Start Simple, Then Progress
If you’re new to color by number, start with simpler designs to get comfortable. Gradually move to more intricate patterns like pixel art color by number, which rewards you with a stunning image once complete. - Create a Relaxing Environment
Set up a cozy space with soft lighting, a warm drink, and relaxing music. Coloring is not just about the result—it’s about the process. Treat it as a meditative ritual to clear your mind and unwind. - Test Colors Before Starting
Test your coloring tools on a scrap sheet of paper to see how the colors look together. This is especially helpful for books like 100 Quest Color by Number, where precision brings out the hidden beauty of pixel art designs. - Take Your Time
There’s no rush to finish. Coloring is about slowing down and enjoying each moment. Work at your own pace, one section at a time, and savor the satisfaction of watching the full image come to life.
Final Thoughts
Color by number books are a wonderful way to relax, unleash creativity, and enjoy the simple pleasure of bringing images to life. Whether you’re drawn to nature scenes, intricate patterns, or nostalgic pixel art, there’s a book for every taste and mood. My personal favorite, 100 Quest Color by Number, combines the joy of pixel art with the satisfaction of completing a hidden masterpiece, but each book on this list offers its own unique charm.
Coloring isn’t just a hobby—it’s a chance to slow down, clear your mind, and savor the meditative process. I hope this list inspires you to find the perfect book to start your next creative journey. Happy coloring!
FAQ
Are color by number books good for stress relief?
Yes! Color by number books are designed to be calming and stress-relieving. By following the numbers, you can focus on the process rather than making decisions, which helps quiet the mind and promote mindfulness.
What tools should I use for color by number books?
Colored pencils, fine-tip markers, and gel pens work best. For markers, it’s a good idea to place a blank sheet of paper behind the page to prevent bleed-through.
What is pixel art color by number?
Pixel art color by number involves coloring small, square sections that come together to form a pixelated image, much like classic computer games. It’s a unique and satisfying style, especially if you enjoy a mix of creativity and nostalgia.
Are there color by number books for beginners?
Absolutely! Many books, like Brain Games – Color by Number, offer simple designs perfect for beginners. As you gain confidence, you can try more detailed options like pixel art or intricate patterns.
Can I frame my finished pages?
Yes! Many books, such as those from Creative Haven, feature perforated pages, making it easy to tear out your artwork and frame it for display.
Are color by number books suitable for all ages?
While many are designed for adults, color by number books are perfect for any age group looking to relax and enjoy coloring. Just check for complexity levels to find the right fit.