Diamond painting: what is it ? Here is the 2021 guide for beginners

DIAMOND PAINTING: WHAT IS IT ?

Diamond painting can be described as a craft hobby. Think of it as an integration between Paint by Numbers and Cross Stitch.

Diamond painting started in 2015. It was developed to be a more therapeutic version of Cross Stitch - a quicker and easier version.

Diamond painting allows you to apply small resin “diamonds” to DMC-coated adhesive canvas to create brighter mosaic paintings.

GETTING STARTED WITH DIAMOND PAINTING

NAVIGATION INSTRUCTIONS

• Remove all items from the packaging.
• The canvas must be placed on a flat, clean surface.
• To begin, select a colored diamond.
• Pour the diamonds into the tray (included) to simplify picking.
• The tip of the applicator must be dipped in wax. This will allow you to collect the diamonds effortlessly. (Note - wax is included with some kits, tweezers are included with others.)
• The tip of the applicator should be placed on the rounded side of the diamond.
• The plastic film of the applicator must be carefully peeled off. The diamond must then be pressed onto the corresponding symbol.
• This process must be repeated until you are finished!

WHAT SEPARATE A SQUARE DIAMOND FROM A ROUND ?

When it comes to diamond painting, you will sometimes come across terms like "round drill" and "square drill." The word “drill” is just a substitute word to describe a diamond.

When talking about square diamonds and round diamonds, we compare the shapes of the diamond to each other.

If you are trying to make a choice between a round and square shape, you should keep in mind that there is no correct answer. Your goal should be to choose a shape that you believe is beautiful.

SQUARE DIAMONDS

You will be able to create a more complete painting

Square diamonds appear “cleaner” compared to round diamonds. They line up more easily with each other, creating a complete mosaic appearance when viewed from a distance.

Square diamonds “snap” satisfactorily

Little things like this can go a long way! As you begin the filling process, the "snap" you'll hear as these pieces come together will be quite satisfying.

ROUND DIAMONDS

Collecting diamonds and applying them will be faster and easier!

Round diamonds adhere much better to diamond pens, making the transition almost seamless.

The finished painting may appear less “complete”

By keeping the shapes of the diamonds in mind, the spaces between the diamonds can be more visible when looking at the painting closely.

DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES FOR DIAMOND PAINTING

You may want to change things after a while. Various diamond painting techniques have been developed by our community. The strategies for using them couldn't be easier!

THE CHECKERBOARD APPROACH

Alternating white and black squares can be applied to areas containing large amounts of a certain color. Many gaps will thus be filled. When everything comes together, the finished piece will be fascinating.

START AT THE BOTTOM

The best things should be saved for last. This approach involves starting with the color you have the fewest diamonds for. Round things out with whatever color you have in abundance. Things will get easier as you move forward. Several similar colors can be used simultaneously if you have a multi-headed diamond pen.

THE INDIVIDUAL APPROACH

Although this approach doesn't deserve much explanation, it is worth mentioning. Simply move from one side of the canvas to the other using an individual color per movement. Remember, though, that some easily exposed areas may feel less sticky over time. However, all empty spaces will be filled with this approach. For some people, the process may be more satisfying than moving from one row to the next.

SUGGESTION: If some areas are losing adhesion due to exposure to air, the stain can be blotted with a baby wipe or damp towel.

THE FIRM GROUND APPROACH

Large blocks containing similar colors should be divided into smaller 'plots' which can be 'harvested' on an individual basis. Each rectangle should be large enough that 3 to 5 diamonds can be placed in it using the wide end of the diamond pen.

Each kit will include everything you need to get started!

• Wax stamp (with which you can collect diamonds).
• A diamond pen.
• Colored diamonds (separated by labeled bags).
• Canvas (pre-printed) with design chart (includes pre-applied adhesive).

IF THE CANVAS IS DISPLAYED WITH FOLDS, WHAT SHOULD I DO ?

Many kits ship from overseas. Our canvases are securely packaged. Occasionally, however, creases may appear on the canvas. What steps can you take to remove them ?

• Stick your canvas under a mattress - leave the canvas there overnight.
• Place heavy books directly on your canvas - applying weights to the canvas using heavy books and leaving them there for a few days will flatten the creases.
• Craft knives can be used to cut creases - if some creases are too stubborn to come out, use X-Acto knives or a tool like them to release the air trapped between your canvas and the adhesive layer that is attached to it.

FRAMING A DIAMOND PAINTING

Oraloa can provide you with a natural wood stretcher bar that you can add to your finished canvas.

Note - the beads should be fixed with Mod Podge or similar putty, following the steps shown in this video. Contact us for more complete instructions.

USEFUL TIPS AND ADVICE

• The canvas will come wrapped in baking paper or plastic film upon arrival (so that the stickiness is preserved). The plastic film should not be removed all at once. Rather, the plastic should be peeled away slowly as you work your way up.
• Egg cartons can be used for organizing diamonds. The process is simple and cheap.
• Glue or glue the diamonds next to the symbol shown on your canvas. Diamonds can be referenced easily whenever you need a quick glance.
• Baby wipes can be used to make certain areas sticky again. If a certain area of ​​the canvas loses its stickiness, use a baby wipe to dab that area. This technique can also be used to remove pet hair or paper from your canvas.

The Oraloa family welcomes you!

If you have any questions, send us an email message at info@oraloa.com ou by contacting us on Facebook.

Do you have any diamond painting suggestions to share ? We'd love to hear about them below.