Full Drill vs Partial Drill Diamond Painting: Which One Should You Choose?

When shopping for a diamond painting kit, you will often see the terms full drill and partial drill. For beginners, this can be confusing. What do these options mean, and which one is better for you?

If you are still new to this craft and want a quick overview of the basics, you may want to start with our guide on what diamond painting is before diving into drill styles.

This article will explain the differences between full drill and partial drill diamond paintings, how they affect your experience, and how to choose the right one based on time, skill level, and personal preference.

What Is Full Drill Diamond Painting?

A full drill diamond painting means the entire canvas is covered with diamonds. Every section of the design is filled, creating a rich, sparkling, and highly detailed finished artwork.

Full drill kits are popular because they deliver a strong visual impact and a more “complete” look. The finished piece usually feels more premium and is ideal for framing and wall display.

However, because every part of the canvas must be completed, full drill diamond paintings require more time and patience. If you are curious about the time commitment, our guide on how long diamond painting takes breaks this down in detail.

What Is Partial Drill Diamond Painting?

A partial drill diamond painting only places diamonds on specific areas of the canvas. The background is often pre-printed, while diamonds are used to highlight key elements such as flowers, animals, or main objects.

Partial drill kits are faster to complete and less demanding, making them a great option for beginners, casual crafters, or anyone who wants a relaxing project without a long time commitment.

They also work well for decorative items, gifts, or seasonal designs where you want a quick and enjoyable crafting experience.

Full Drill vs Partial Drill: Key Differences

The main differences between full drill and partial drill diamond painting include coverage, time, and visual effect.

Full drill paintings offer maximum sparkle and detail because the entire canvas is covered with diamonds. Partial drill paintings provide a lighter, more minimal look with diamonds used as accents.

In terms of time, full drill projects naturally take longer, while partial drill projects can often be completed in a fraction of the time. This makes partial drill kits ideal for beginners or for those with limited crafting time.

How Diamond Type Affects Drill Style

Drill style and diamond type often work together. Many full drill kits use high-sparkle diamonds to enhance the overall effect, while partial drill kits focus on strategic placement.

If you want to understand how diamond types influence shine and placement, check out our detailed comparison of 5D vs 3D diamonds. This will help you decide which diamond style pairs best with your chosen drill type.

Which Is Better for Beginners?

For absolute beginners, partial drill diamond painting is often the easiest place to start. It requires less time, fewer diamonds, and less concentration, while still delivering a satisfying result.

That said, many beginners enjoy jumping straight into a full drill kit, especially if they enjoy detailed projects and want a bold, sparkling finished piece. Starting with a smaller full drill canvas can be a good compromise.

How to Choose the Right Drill Style for You

When choosing between full drill and partial drill, ask yourself a few simple questions:

How much time do you want to spend on this project?
Do you prefer a fully sparkling artwork or a lighter, decorative look?
Are you crafting for relaxation, decoration, or as a gift?

Your answers will quickly guide you toward the right choice.

Final Thoughts

Both full drill and partial drill diamond paintings offer unique experiences. Full drill kits provide maximum sparkle and detail, while partial drill kits offer speed and simplicity.

No matter which style you choose, diamond painting is meant to be enjoyable and relaxing. Explore different designs and drill styles to discover what works best for you.

If you are ready to get started, browse our best-selling diamond painting kits and find the perfect project for your skill level and schedule.