Hello Cleveland Heights neighbors! If you've been thinking about refreshing your home's interior with fresh coat of paint, you're in luck. The latest painting trends are about creating a cozy, stylish, and personalized space. Whether you're a first-timer or simply need a refresher, this step-by-step guide will help you tackle interior painting like a pro.

Trend 1: Earthy and natural tones

1. Choose Your Color: Opt for earthy tones like warm browns, soft greens, or rich terracottas. These colors bring warmth and nature into your home.

2. Gather Supplies: You will need paint, rollers, brushes, painter's tape, drop cloths, and a paint tray.

3. Prepare the room: Move furniture, lay drop cloths, and tape off any areas you don't want to paint.

If you are painting over a dark color or over drywall, prime the walls to ensure even coverage.

5. Paint with Passion: Use a roller for large areas and a brush for corners and edges. Apply at least two coats for excellent results.

Trend 2: Bold accent walls

1. Select Your Wall: Choose one wall to stand out with a bold color. Popular choices include deep blues, emerald greens, or vibrant yellows.

2. Outline Your Area: Use painter's tape to mark the edges of the accent wall to ensure clean lines.

3. Apply the Paint: After priming, if needed, apply the bold color using a roller. Use a brush for the edges.

4. Remove the tape: Once the paint is completely dry, gently remove the tape.

5. Accessorize: Complement your accent wall with decor that ties in with the bold color for a cohesive look.

Trend 3: Soft Pastels

1. Pick Your Pastel: Colors like blush pink, light lavender, and mint green create a soothing atmosphere.

2. Get Ready to Paint: Follow the general preparation steps – moving furniture, laying drop cloths, and tapping off.

3. Mix and Match: Consider using different pastels in connecting rooms for a seamless yet varied look.

4. Apply Layers: Pastels often need several coats to achieve the desired hue, so don't skimp on layers.

5. Finish Up: Once dry, add soft furnishings and decor items that highlight the gentle tones.

Trend 4: Two-Tone Walls

1. Divide Your Wall: Decide where you want the split – usually above chair rail height or mid-wall. Mark this using tape.

2. Select Colors: Choose complementary colors, such as navy and white or gray and yellow, for a striking contrast.

3. Paint the Top Half: Start with the lighter color on the top half. Start painting from the ceiling and work your way down to the line you marked.

4. Paint the Bottom Half: Once the top half is dry, tape off the edges and paint the bottom half a darker color.

5. Final Touches: Carefully remove the tape to reveal your stunning two-tone wall and touch up any imperfections.

Trend 5: Geometric Patterns

1. Design Your Pattern: Sketch out your desired geometric pattern on paper. There are many shapes to choose from, including triangles, squares, and hexagons.

2. Measure and Tape: Use a measuring tape and level to replicate your pattern on the wall with painter's tape.

3. Select Paint Colors: Choose contrasting colors to make your geometric patterns stand out.

4. Paint Within the Lines: Carefully paint inside the taped shapes. Use different brushes for different shapes if needed.

5. Reveal the Art: Remove the tape after the paint has dried to reveal your geometric masterpiece.

Bonus Tips for All Trends:

- Ventilation is Key: Ensure your painting area is well-ventilated to avoid fumes.

- Protect Your Floors and Furniture: Always use drop cloths and move or cover furniture.

- Take Your Time: Patience is the key to a professional-looking finish.

By incorporating these top painting trends, you can transform your Cleveland Heights home into a stylish haven.