DAPHNE, Ala. — Sometimes, paint-by-numbers isn’t so bad.

For instance, Paint and Pals Studio — located at 28600 U.S. Highway 98 — offers classes in which artists give step-by-step instructions, so someone who has never picked up a paintbrush can create their very own masterpiece.

“Having everything here for you and ready to go is really convenient,” Monique Nichols, of Spanish Fort, said. “It’s nice to also have someone here to refer to for questions.”

Classes generally last about two hours. The steps to creating a new work of art are easy, especially on the presketched canvas given at the class. Paint and Pals also has classes for children as young as 5.

“I learned that I could do it,” Christine Elser, of Daphne, said with a smile after the painting class.

Each class carries a different painting theme.

Such themes include Maine lobsters, houses, flamingos, flowers, porches, fish and crabs.

Painters are encouraged to bring their favorite drink — wine and other alcoholic beverages are allowed — and arrive 15 minutes early, wearing comfortable clothing. A party room located in front of the studio  has tables set up for snacks.

“Whether coming alone or with a group, Paint and Pals is a fabulous and fun night out for painters and non-painters alike,” Kristen Kammer-Hattox, a regular, said. “I have done it five times so far and have two more sessions coming up this month.”

Private parties of 10 or more may be ideal for wedding showers and birthday parties.

Lynn Maggio, owner, opened the store last December, but changed the name June 1 to Paint and Pals. The company recently moved out of Vino e Grappa wine shop, where they held their classes, and moved into their own building July 1.

Maggio, an interior decorator, said she enjoys introducing people to art. Many who come to paint are proud they can have their own artwork to display at home, she said.

“I’m a decorator so I’m into the arts and helping people find art for their home,” Maggio said. “I think we need to educate people on the arts more.”

The Eastern Shore could use a place like Paint and Pals, she said.

Maggio added that the concept of painting classes was big in Birmingham. While visiting friends in that area she had learned more about the painting classes and wanted to start something like that here.

“About 75 percent of people who come in here have never even picked up a paintbrush. They come here and love it then buy supplies and try it at home. When people buy the supplies they are boosting the economy and developing an interest of art.”

Linda Scott, a Daphne artist, taught a class last Thursday night where three poppy flowers were painted. Scott began painting 28 years ago and enjoys teaching the classes at the studio.

“It really started off as a stress reliever,” she said. “I just got an interest in doing something creative.”

She instructed the class through the painting process, step by step. The class began with simple instructions on how to fade in colors to look natural. Shading and highlighting are big steps in making a painting look more realistic, she said during the class. She showed the class other techniques to give the flowers a more natural look, as if they were outside and sunlight was reflecting off the petals.

“We just try to make it simple,” Scott said. “(And) it is — it really, really is.”

Whitney Reaves, of Spanish Fort, also enjoyed the class and the poppy flower painting done that evening. “The colors went really well with my house,” she said.