Color by numbers aren't just for kids anymore. For those who've graduated from simple shapes and basic palettes, a new world of intricate and challenging designs awaits. If you're searching for puzzles that require more focus, feature complex color blending, or involve hundreds of tiny sections, you've found the right guide. This article is your curated resource for finding the best color by numbers advanced printables, books, and digital apps. We've moved beyond the beginner level to bring you options that will truly test your patience and reward you with stunning, detailed artwork.
This roundup is designed to be your one-stop-shop for sophisticated coloring experiences, saving you the time of sifting through countless websites. We'll explore a variety of platforms, from established publishers to digital marketplaces, each offering unique and complex challenges. Whether you are a teacher looking for an engaging classroom activity that builds concentration, a parent seeking a screen-free hobby for older kids, or an adult wanting a mindful artistic escape, this list has you covered. Each entry includes direct links and key details to help you quickly find the perfect project to elevate your coloring skills and create something truly remarkable.
1. Dover Publications – Creative Haven Color by Number (official store)
For colorists seeking a consistent, high-quality physical book experience, Dover Publications’ official store is the definitive source for their renowned Creative Haven® Color by Number series. This platform is less about individual printables and more about curating a library of themed books specifically designed for advanced adult coloring. The designs often feature intricate details and sophisticated color palettes, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a genuine artistic challenge.
Navigating the Dover store is straightforward, allowing you to browse their entire catalog of over 30 dedicated color-by-number titles. The collection includes everything from serene landscapes and detailed wildlife portraits to complex mandalas and seasonal scenes. Buying directly from the publisher ensures you receive the latest print runs with the best paper quality, which is crucial for advanced coloring techniques like blending and layering.
Key Features and Practical Tips
The Creative Haven series has a standardized format: typically 46 single-sided, perforated pages with a full printed color key on the inside cover. This consistency is a major advantage for serious colorists who want reliable results every time.
Actionable Insights:
- Color Key Swatching: Before starting a page, use a scrap piece of paper to swatch your chosen pencils or markers next to the printed color key. This helps you perfectly match the intended shades and account for variations between your art supplies and the printed ink. For example, your "Forest Green" pencil might be darker than the key's, so you might choose a "Leaf Green" instead.
- Leverage Perforated Pages: The perforated pages are perfect for those who prefer to work on a flat surface or use markers. Removing the page prevents bleed-through from ruining the next illustration and allows you to display your finished work. Place a blank sheet of paper underneath when using alcohol markers to protect your work surface.
- Plan for Promotions: Dover’s official store frequently runs shipping promotions for US-based customers. If you plan to purchase multiple books, sign up for their newsletter or check the site periodically to take advantage of these deals and save on costs.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Selection | Direct access to the full, updated catalog of 30+ titles. | Fewer bundle deals compared to larger online retailers. |
| Quality | Consistent, high-quality paper and printing across the series. | Shipping may be slower than marketplaces like Amazon. |
| Format | Single-sided, perforated pages are ideal for markers. | Physical books only; no digital or printable options. |
By offering a reliable and specialized collection, the official Dover Publications store is an essential destination for anyone serious about elevating their color by numbers advanced hobby.
Website: store.doverpublications.com/collections/color-by-number
2. Barnes & Noble – Color by Number for Adults
As a major US bookseller, Barnes & Noble provides a reliable and accessible option for purchasing physical color by numbers advanced books. Their dedicated online category gathers a broad mix of titles, including the popular Creative Haven series alongside other publishers, making it a convenient one-stop shop. The platform excels by blending online convenience with a brick-and-mortar presence, offering options like in-store pickup and transparent stock availability.
For the advanced colorist, the primary advantage is the ability to browse customer reviews and see new releases as they become available. This helps in selecting books with genuinely complex designs and high-quality paper. The site's clear layout shows shipping windows and allows you to check if a specific title is available at your local store, a feature particularly useful if you want to start a new project immediately.
Key Features and Practical Tips
The platform’s strength lies in its user-friendly interface and fulfillment options. Product pages are detailed, often including multiple interior images and customer ratings that offer insights into a book’s complexity and paper quality. These features make it a valuable resource for anyone who uses coloring for relaxation and mindfulness, a concept you can learn more about regarding the therapeutic benefits of coloring.
Actionable Insights:
- Use the 'Pick Up in Store' Feature: Before ordering online, check for local store availability. This not only saves on shipping costs but allows you to physically inspect the book for paper thickness and print clarity before purchasing—crucial for advanced techniques.
- Read Customer Reviews for Complexity: Pay close attention to reviews that mention the intricacy of the designs or the color palette. Users often provide valuable feedback, such as, "The numbers are very small and require a fine-point pen," which tells you if a book is truly "advanced."
- Create a Wishlist: Use the wishlist feature to track titles that are temporarily out of stock online. You can get notifications when they become available again, ensuring you don't miss out on a popular or newly released book.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Selection | Broad mix of publishers, including Creative Haven and newer releases. | Some niche or specialized titles may go out of stock online intermittently. |
| Availability | Reliable US shipping and convenient in-store pickup options. | Prices may be less discounted compared to mass-market online retailers. |
| User Experience | Detailed product pages with customer reviews aid in selection. | Website navigation can sometimes be slower than more streamlined e-commerce sites. |
By combining a curated selection with flexible purchasing options, Barnes & Noble stands as a dependable resource for enthusiasts seeking high-quality color by numbers advanced books.
Website: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/b/books/coloring-books/color-by-number-coloring-books/_/N-29Z8q8Z2kur
3. Walmart – Creative Haven and other adult Color by Number titles
For dedicated colorists on a budget, Walmart's online platform is a surprisingly powerful resource for acquiring popular color by numbers advanced books at competitive prices. While it’s a general retailer, Walmart often stocks the same high-quality Creative Haven titles found elsewhere, frequently at a lower price point. This makes it an ideal destination for building a physical coloring library without overspending, especially when combined with their fast and affordable shipping options.
The site functions as both a direct retailer and a marketplace, offering a wide variety of themed books like mandalas, florals, and travel scenes. You can find identical editions of sought-after books, making it a savvy choice for cost-conscious hobbyists who already know which titles they want. The key is to check listings carefully to see if an item is sold directly by Walmart or by a third-party seller.
Key Features and Practical Tips
Walmart’s primary advantage is its pricing and logistics. Item pages clearly display the seller, estimated delivery dates, and the returns policy, providing transparency before you purchase. This allows you to balance cost savings with seller reliability.
Actionable Insights:
- Filter for "Sold by Walmart": To ensure consistent quality and take advantage of Walmart's shipping and returns policies (like free in-store pickup), use the website's filters to show only items sold and shipped directly by Walmart. This is the most reliable way to get an undamaged book.
- Price-Match in Your Cart: Before purchasing a specific Creative Haven book elsewhere, search for its ISBN on Walmart.com. You might find the exact same book for a few dollars less, and those small savings add up when you’re buying multiple titles.
- Check Seller Reviews: If a great deal is offered by a third-party marketplace seller, take a moment to check their ratings and reviews. This helps you avoid potential issues with packaging quality or shipping delays, ensuring your books arrive in pristine condition. A good seller will have recent positive feedback on shipping speed and item condition.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Often the lowest price for identical Creative Haven editions. | Prices can fluctuate daily based on stock and sellers. |
| Convenience | Fast delivery windows and straightforward returns process. | Listings mix Walmart-sold and marketplace sellers; quality can vary. |
| Availability | Wide variety of popular adult color-by-number titles. | Stock levels can be inconsistent; some titles may be temporarily unavailable. |
By offering a low-cost, high-convenience alternative, Walmart is an excellent platform for strategically expanding your collection of color by numbers advanced books.
Website: walmart.com/ip/453220796
4. Etsy – Advanced and printable Color by Number (digital downloads and kits)
For those who crave variety and instant gratification, Etsy is an enormous digital marketplace filled with color by numbers advanced printables from independent artists and creators worldwide. Unlike traditional publishers, Etsy offers a vast, ever-changing selection of digital downloads (PDF/PNG files) and unique physical kits. This platform is ideal for finding niche themes, artistic styles, and high-detail pages that you can print and start coloring within minutes.
Exploring Etsy reveals a treasure trove of subject matter, from photorealistic landscapes and vintage travel posters to intricate mosaic-style animals and abstract patterns. The direct-from-creator model means you can find designs with unique color palettes and creative compositions not typically available in mass-market books. The ability to purchase and download instantly makes it perfect for last-minute projects or building a diverse digital coloring library.
Key Features and Practical Tips
The primary advantage of Etsy is the sheer diversity and immediate access to digital files. Most listings provide instant downloads after purchase, and many sellers bundle multiple designs together for a reduced price, offering excellent value.
Actionable Insights:
- Vet Before You Buy: Quality can vary significantly between sellers. Always examine listing photos, read recent customer reviews (especially those with photos of finished projects), and check the item description for details on file format and print dimensions. Look for sellers who show a partially colored example to prove the design works.
- Paper Matters for Printables: To get the best results from a detailed printable, use high-quality paper. For colored pencils, a smooth cardstock (65-80 lb) works well as it allows for layering and blending. If you plan to use markers, choose a heavier, marker-specific paper to prevent bleed-through. You can explore more about page types in this guide to printable coloring pages.
- Communicate with Sellers: Don't hesitate to message a seller before purchasing if you have questions about the color key, file resolution, or complexity. Most creators are responsive and happy to provide more information to ensure you’re satisfied with their product. For example, ask if the key uses standard color names or specific brand codes.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Selection | Massive, diverse catalog with unique and niche themes. | Quality and formatting are not standardized and vary by seller. |
| Access | Instant digital downloads for immediate coloring. | Color keys and file formats differ across shops. |
| Price | Wide range of prices, frequent sales, and bundle deals. | Must have a printer and quality paper for the best experience. |
With its endless creativity and instant access, Etsy is an essential resource for any enthusiast looking to expand their collection of color by numbers advanced projects beyond traditional books.
Website: www.etsy.com/market/adult_color_by_number_printable
5. Happy Color by X-FLOW (official site + app stores)
For those who prefer a digital canvas, Happy Color by X-FLOW is a dominant player in the mobile coloring world, offering a massive library of intricate designs. This platform shifts the color by numbers advanced experience from physical paper to a tactile, screen-based activity. Its strength lies in its sheer volume-with over 40,000 images and daily additions-and the convenience of coloring detailed pictures anywhere without needing art supplies.
The app is designed for precision, featuring smooth pinch-to-zoom functionality that allows users to navigate and fill even the most minuscule segments of a complex image. From photorealistic animals to sprawling fantasy landscapes, the catalog is easily searchable and caters to a wide range of advanced tastes. The digital format also introduces unique features like animated playback of your coloring process, offering a satisfying way to review your completed work.
Key Features and Practical Tips
Happy Color excels at providing a continuous stream of new and challenging content directly to your device. The app is free to download on iOS and Android, with an optional premium subscription to remove ads and unlock exclusive pictures. This model makes it accessible to everyone, from casual colorists to dedicated digital artists.
Actionable Insights:
- Utilize the Zoom Function: For highly detailed images with hundreds of tiny cells, master the pinch-to-zoom feature. This is the key to accurate coloring and avoiding mistakes on complex patterns or textures. Zoom in fully on sections with many different adjacent numbers to ensure you tap the correct area.
- Find Your Niche: With tens of thousands of pictures, the search function is your best friend. Use specific keywords like "mandala," "mosaic," or "landscape" to find the exact type of advanced challenge you're in the mood for.
- Manage Your Progress: The app saves your progress automatically. Feel free to tackle large, complex pieces in multiple sessions without fear of losing your work. This makes it ideal for coloring during short breaks throughout the day, like on a commute or while waiting in line.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Selection | Massive, continuously updated catalog with 40,000+ images. | Recurring subscription required for premium content and an ad-free experience. |
| Quality | Smooth zooming and tools are perfect for tiny, intricate areas. | Ads can be disruptive in the free tier, interrupting the creative flow. |
| Format | Convenient mobile access for on-the-go coloring. | Mobile-only workflow with no option for printable output. |
By translating the traditional hobby into a dynamic digital experience, Happy Color offers an endless supply of intricate designs for anyone seeking an advanced color-by-number challenge on their phone or tablet. If you're looking for a physical coloring experience with similar complexity, you can explore some of our advanced color by number pages on Colortada.com.
Website: happycolorapp.com
6. Lightwood Games – Pic-a-Pix Color (Conceptis-designed advanced color logic puzzles)
For those who crave a deductive challenge, Lightwood Games offers a digital twist on the genre with Pic-a-Pix Color. This isn't a traditional coloring book; it's a sophisticated logic puzzle game, often known as a nonogram or Picross. Developed with puzzles designed by the renowned Conceptis, this platform transforms coloring into a brain-teasing exercise where you use numerical clues to reveal a hidden pixel art image. It’s an ideal choice for advanced users who find standard coloring too passive and want to engage their analytical skills.
Available on PlayStation and other console platforms, the game provides a clean, user-friendly interface for solving its 150 included color puzzles. The experience is centered entirely on logic, requiring you to determine which cells to color and which to leave blank based on the numbers provided for each row and column. The challenge comes from deciphering how different colored number clues interact within the same line, offering a deep and rewarding color by numbers advanced puzzle experience.
Key Features and Practical Tips
The game's strength lies in its meticulously designed logic puzzles, which range from small 5x5 grids for beginners to complex 20x20 grids that will test even seasoned nonogram fans. The digital format eliminates erasing and provides instant feedback, making the solving process smooth and precise.
Actionable Insights:
- Focus on Single-Color Lines First: When starting a complex puzzle, identify rows or columns that have clues for only one color. For example, a row clue of "Blue 5" is much easier to solve than "Red 2, Yellow 4." Solving these first provides crucial anchor points.
- Use the 'Mark X' Function: Actively mark cells you know must be empty with an 'X'. This visual elimination technique is critical for solving larger grids, as it prevents confusion and helps you narrow down possibilities for colored cells.
- Start with Small DLC: If you enjoy the base game, consider starting with a smaller, themed downloadable content (DLC) pack. This lets you test the difficulty and style of the extra puzzles before committing to larger, more expensive packs.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Selection | 150 base puzzles with numerous extra DLC packs available. | Limited to the Pic-a-Pix (nonogram) puzzle format. |
| Quality | Expertly designed logic puzzles by Conceptis ensure fairness. | It's a digital game, not a creative coloring activity. |
| Format | Console controls provide precise, error-free input. | Requires purchase of a game console and the base game. |
By blending logic with pixel art, Lightwood Games’ Pic-a-Pix Color offers a uniquely cerebral and engaging form of advanced color by number for puzzle enthusiasts.
Website: www.lightwoodgames.com/pic-a-pix-color/
7. Target – Adult Color by Number (Brain Games series and Creative Haven titles)
For those who prefer the convenience of a major retailer, Target offers a curated selection of physical color by numbers advanced books, primarily featuring the popular Brain Games® and Creative Haven® series. This platform is ideal for US-based customers seeking competitive pricing, easy returns, and the option for same-day in-store pickup. While not a specialist art store, Target provides a reliable and accessible way to purchase high-quality coloring books alongside other household items.
The main advantage of shopping at Target is the blend of online convenience with brick-and-mortar accessibility. Product pages clearly display stock levels for local stores, shipping thresholds (often free with a $35 order), and a generous 90-day return policy. This makes it a low-risk option for trying out a new book series or picking up a last-minute gift.
Key Features and Practical Tips
The selection at Target is particularly notable for carrying the spiral-bound Brain Games editions, which are designed to lie completely flat. This format is a significant ergonomic benefit for colorists, especially when working on intricate details near the book's spine, as it eliminates the need to hold the pages down while coloring.
Actionable Insights:
- Check Local Inventory: Use the Target app or website to check if a specific title is in stock at your local store. This allows you to inspect the book's quality and design complexity in person before purchasing and avoid shipping fees entirely.
- Utilize the Lie-Flat Binding: If you choose a Brain Games spiral-bound book, take full advantage of the format. It's perfect for left-handed colorists and allows for even pressure with colored pencils across the entire page, from corner to corner, preventing smudging and inconsistent application.
- Bundle to Meet Shipping Thresholds: If ordering online, bundle your coloring book purchase with other household necessities to easily meet the common $35 free shipping minimum, making it a more cost-effective choice than a standalone book order.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Competitive pricing and convenient in-store pickup options. | Selection per title can be thinner than book-specialist retailers. |
| Format | Spiral-bound Brain Games editions lie flat for easier coloring. | Some listings only qualify for free shipping with order minimums. |
| Returns | Straightforward and generous 90-day return policy. | Primarily focused on US customers; international options are limited. |
By combining accessibility with a solid selection of well-regarded brands, Target serves as an excellent and practical source for your next color by numbers advanced project.
Website: www.target.com/s?searchTerm=color+by+number+adult
Advanced Color-by-Number — 7-Source Comparison
| Item | Implementation complexity 🔄 | Resource requirements ⚡ | Expected outcomes ⭐ | Results / Impact 📊 | Ideal use cases / Tips 💡 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dover Publications – Creative Haven (official store) | 🔄 Low — simple direct purchase | ⚡ Moderate cost + shipping; physical materials consistent | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ High-quality, consistent single‑sided print editions | 📊 Reliable production quality; latest printings available | 💡 Best for collectors and experienced colorists seeking publisher editions |
| Barnes & Noble – Color by Number for Adults | 🔄 Low — retail checkout, pickup options | ⚡ Moderate cost; in-store pickup or ship-to-home | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good availability of advanced titles | 📊 Stock visibility + customer reviews aid selection | 💡 Ideal for quick pickup and trying titles before buying |
| Walmart – Creative Haven & others | 🔄 Low — marketplace checkout, mixed sellers | ⚡ Low prices; fast shipping; variable seller/packaging quality | ⭐⭐⭐ Competitive pricing for identical editions | 📊 Often lowest price and fast delivery, but variable seller reliability | 💡 Good for budget buyers; check seller and return policy |
| Etsy – Advanced & printable Color by Number | 🔄 Medium — download/process varies by seller | ⚡ Low cost digital downloads; printing requires user resources | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ High-detail, niche designs; formatting varies | 📊 Instant access and wide variety; quality inconsistent across shops | 💡 Use previews/reviews; ideal for unique printables and bundles |
| Happy Color by X‑FLOW (app) | 🔄 Medium — app install; optional subscription | ⚡ Mobile device required; optional recurring fee; no print output | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Massive digital catalog with precise zoom tools | 📊 Huge, continuously updated library; ad-supported free tier | 💡 Best for mobile users who prefer digital, non‑print workflows |
| Lightwood Games – Pic-a-Pix Color | 🔄 High — console purchase + DLCs | ⚡ Console/platform required; game + add‑ons cost extra | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ True logic-based color puzzles (non‑print) | 📊 Deep puzzle challenge with clear feedback and precision controls | 💡 Suited for puzzle fans wanting deductive, game‑style color‑by‑number |
| Target – Adult Color by Number | 🔄 Low — retail checkout, pickup/returns | ⚡ Competitive pricing; in-store pickup; selection varies | ⭐⭐⭐ Reliable mix including spiral-bound, lay‑flat options | 📊 Convenient returns and pickup; selection smaller than specialist shops | 💡 Good for in-person shoppers and those wanting spiral/lay‑flat formats |
Your Next Masterpiece Awaits
We've journeyed through a curated collection of resources, from the intricate physical books found at Barnes & Noble and Target to the instant gratification of digital downloads on Etsy and the logic-based challenges of apps like Pic-a-Pix. Each tool offers a unique gateway into the vibrant and engaging world of color by numbers advanced puzzles, proving that this classic activity is far more than just child's play. It’s a versatile and powerful tool for artistic expression, cognitive enhancement, and pure relaxation.
The key takeaway is that the "best" resource is entirely dependent on your personal goals, your environment, and your artistic preferences. What works for a teacher planning a quiet classroom activity might differ from what a parent needs for a family art night or what an individual seeks for a mindful solo project.
Choosing Your Advanced Coloring Path
To find your perfect fit, consider what you valued most as you explored the options in this guide.
- For the Tactile Traditionalist: If you love the feel of paper and the blend of physical media, sticking with printed books from sources like Dover Publications or the Creative Haven series available at Walmart is your ideal path. This allows you to experiment with markers, colored pencils, or even gel pens. A practical tip: work from light to dark colors to avoid smudging darker pigments into lighter areas.
- For the Instant Artist: If you need an activity right now, digital is the way to go. Etsy offers a massive library of printable color by numbers advanced sheets that you can download and print immediately. Similarly, apps like Happy Color provide an on-the-go coloring experience without any setup or cleanup.
- For the Puzzle Enthusiast: If the cognitive challenge is what draws you in, Lightwood Games’ Pic-a-Pix puzzles are unmatched. These transform coloring into a game of logic and deduction, rewarding you with a surprise image for your efforts. A good strategy is to complete the border rows and columns first to build a framework for the rest of the puzzle.
- For the Mindful Colorist: Remember, the complexity of these designs isn't just for show. The focus required to match dozens of colors and fill in tiny, detailed sections is a powerful form of mindfulness. Many find that this deep engagement offers significant coloring for stress relief, helping to quiet a busy mind and promote a state of calm.
No matter which tool you choose, the journey from a page of numbered shapes to a fully realized, vibrant image is a deeply rewarding process. You are not just filling in spaces; you are building a masterpiece one color at a time, exercising your brain, and giving yourself a well-deserved creative outlet. The world of color by numbers advanced is rich and waiting for you to make your mark.
Ready to dive into a world of breathtaking detail and artistic satisfaction? Colortada offers premium, artist-designed color by numbers advanced printables that transform coloring into a true art form. Explore our exclusive collections at Colortada and download your next creative project today.
