Wondering how long it takes to finish a diamond painting? The answer varies based on size, diamond type, your experience level, and how often you sit down to paint. Whether you're a weekend hobbyist or a daily creator, this guide will help you estimate your project time and enjoy the process without pressure.

Key Factors That Affect Completion Time

1. Canvas Size and Number of Drills

Naturally, larger canvases take more time. For instance, our Fish School diamond painting kit measures 74x38.5 cm and includes 31,985 round drills, which takes significantly longer than a smaller piece.

2. Round vs. Square Drills

Round drill diamond painting kits like the Ocean Girl are typically easier and quicker to place, making them a great choice for intermediate users who want a balance of detail and smooth workflow. Square drills offer a more seamless look but usually take longer to align.

3. Full Drill vs. Partial Drill

A full drill diamond painting requires every inch of the canvas to be covered in diamonds. This provides complete coverage and sparkle but demands more time. Partial drill designs cover only focal areas and finish faster.

4. Your Painting Routine

Are you crafting daily or just on weekends? Someone painting 1 hour per day will obviously finish sooner than someone who works in short bursts. Diamond painting is meant to be meditative—focus on rhythm, not speed.

Time Estimates by Experience Level

For Beginners:

• Smaller designs (under 40x40 cm): 10–15 hours

• Partial drill kits: 5–10 hours

• 1–2 weeks at a casual pace

For Intermediate Users:

• Medium to large full drill kits: 20–40 hours

• Like our Ocean Girl: ~28,747 round drills

• Or Fish School: ~31,985 round drills

• Estimated: 2–4 weeks depending on your pace

For Advanced Creators:

• Complex designs with square drills and fine detail: 50+ hours

• Often completed over 1–2 months

Make the Experience Count

Whether you’re into DIY diamond painting kits, seeking creative relaxation, or exploring the meditative benefits of diamond painting, it’s not just about how fast you finish—it’s about the joy of creating. Take breaks, enjoy the sparkle, and celebrate small milestones along the way.

Explore more dazzling kits in our Ocean & Beach Collection or get more ideas from this blog:
9 Creative Things to Do with a Finished Diamond Painting

Final Thoughts

There’s no single answer to how long a diamond painting takes—and that’s the beauty of it. With the right canvas, your pace, and a little consistency, even detailed artworks become manageable and deeply rewarding.