If you're new to diamond painting, you might be wondering: where do I actually start? From choosing the right spot on the canvas to the best technique for large formats, this guide covers everything you need to know about getting started with your sparkling masterpiece.

What to Prepare Before You Start

Before diving in, make sure your workspace is clean, well-lit, and free from dust. Lay out your tools, diamonds, canvas, and storage trays. If you're using one of our complete diamond painting kits for beginners, like those at FEELOOK Art, you'll already have all the essentials.

Where Should You Start on the Canvas?

When you're ready to begin, here’s a tried-and-true tip: start from the bottom corner of the canvas. If you're right-handed, begin from the bottom left. If left-handed, begin from the bottom right. This prevents your hands from sticking to the adhesive or smudging placed diamonds. Avoid starting in the middle—though tempting, it makes it harder to manage the canvas and may damage the adhesive.

Step-by-Step: How to Start Diamond Painting

1. Peel back a small section of the protective film—don’t remove it all at once.

2. Pick a single color to start with and pour some into the tray.

3. Shake gently to align the drills.

4. Dip the pen into wax and pick up a diamond.

5. Match the symbol on the canvas and press the diamond down.

6. Repeat until you complete that section, then move to the next.

Tip: Use Section Paper for Large Diamond Paintings

For full drill diamond painting projects that are large in size, using section paper is a smart way to work in organized, clean areas.

• After peeling the protective layer, place a clean piece of section paper over the exposed adhesive to protect it.

• This method is especially helpful when working on detailed scenes like our Fish School diamond painting kit, which includes over 31,000 round drills.

Product Recommendations

• Ocean Girl diamond painting kit – A beginner-friendly round drill diamond painting featuring 30 colors and 28,747 diamonds. Smooth to start, relaxing to finish.

• Fish School diamond painting kit – With 34 vibrant colors and nearly 32,000 pieces, this DIY diamond painting kit is ideal for adults seeking creative focus.

You can explore more designs from our Ocean & Beach Collection, perfect for anyone looking to make your own diamond painting with seaside themes.

Related Reading

Still unsure how to get started? Read our full tutorial here:
Diamond Painting Kit Guide: Create Your Shimmering Masterpiece Step by Step

Conclusion

Whether you’re just getting started with diamond painting or exploring new techniques, where and how you begin matters. From choosing the right corner to using section paper for large canvases, the process becomes smoother and more enjoyable when approached with care. Let your creativity shine—one drill at a time.