Originating in 1951, paint-by-number kits promised even the least artistic person “a beautiful oil painting the first time you try.” By simply matching each color to a number inside the lines on the drawing, anyone can create professional-looking paintings. Using this fun retro technique, we present the fall 2011 polish collections — deep, rich hues and sparkling glitter tones abound.

By Hannah Lee | Photography by Vu Ong | Illustrations by Danielle Parisi

BY THE NUMBERS (a behind-the-scenes look at creating this month’s polish preview):

3 paint-by-numbers paintings

22  paint-by-numbers kits purchased before deciding on the final three

5  people to paint these final three “masterpieces”

40 hours spent painting the pictures with nail polish

74 bottles of polish used to create the paintings