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PMS 2738 C is part of the Pantone PMS System, known in design and branding for its commanding and unmistakable presence. The color is extremely dark and vibrant, with a bold, clean, technical, modern, and authoritative vibe. Its distinct character is often used where strong visual differentiation and recognition are needed in professional environments.
PMS 2738 C appears very dark due to its low light reflectance value (LRV 2.52). The color exhibits a distinctly cool undertone as a blue-violet. PMS 2738 C is highly saturated, producing a vivid and intense visual effect. The undertone leans toward blue with strong violet influence, maintaining clarity without muddiness. The color can be highly finish-sensitive; gloss levels can affect perceived brightness and depth.
PMS 2738 C is often used in corporate identity systems for logos, signage, and branded environmental graphics where deep, saturated color is required for visibility and impact. The color is frequently referenced in the production of display graphics, trade show materials, and sports branding where a rich blue-violet provides strong visual recognition.
PMS 2738 C works well in settings where a bold, deep blue-violet statement is necessary, especially on large flat surfaces or where dramatic color contrast is desired. Users should be aware of finish sensitivity; higher gloss can increase the apparent vibrancy, while matte finishes may reduce perceived intensity and depth. Lighting conditions significantly affect the color’s appearance—bright, cool lighting will emphasize the blue-violet quality, while warmer or dimmer lights can mute the color. Compared to other saturated dark blues or violets, PMS 2738 C retains a distinctive vividness and is less likely to appear neutral or muted under standard conditions.
This Pantone PMS color is defined by the Pantone Matching System standard. Evaluate the color using a physical Pantone reference and a real paint sample in the intended lighting and finish. Paint appearance varies by finish and lighting.
- The following examples reflect commonly cited branding associations and are based on publicly referenced design usage; they are illustrative, not exhaustive or exclusive. - PMS 2738 C is widely cited as a key color in university branding palettes, including for signage and athletic programs. - PMS 2738 C is commonly referenced in corporate identity manuals for technology and finance brands seeking a deep, modern blue-violet.
Similar colors:
PMS 274 C: Slightly darker and more muted, resulting in a less vibrant appearance.
PMS 2747 C: Warmer and deeper, with more indigo and less violet character.
PMS 2728 C: Lighter, more chromatic, leaning further to blue and presenting a more electric visual effect.
MyPerfectColor is the official licensee of Pantone and authorized to reproduce the Pantone™ PMS 2738 C color in spray paint and other paints.
MyPerfectColor helps marketing professionals turn graphic designs into physical reality. Whether you are a manufacturer, entrepreneur, industrial designer, prototyper/modeler, marketer, agency, printer, retailer, sign manufacturer, exhibit fabricator or architect, MyPerfectColor will help you nail the PMS 2738 C color and produce outstanding results.
MyPerfectColor matches the Pantone PMS 2738 C color based on Pantone color publications. The PMS 2738 C color shown on this website are computer video simulations of the PANTONE PMS 2738 C Color and may not match PANTONE®-identified Color standards. Refer to current PANTONE Publications to obtain accurate color.
The Pantone PMS 2738 C color may vary from the PANTONE Color Standards based on lighting conditions, angle of view and/or due to differences in pigments, manufacturing process, substrate and/or limitations in the color capability of the paint. Refer to current PANTONE Publications to obtain accurate color.
PANTONE® and other Pantone trademarks are the property of Pantone LLC. Portions © Pantone LLC, 2019. Produced under License Agreement between MyPerfectColor.com and Pantone LLC.

PMS 2738 C is widely cited in university branding systems, especially for signage and athletic program colors. It is also referenced in corporate identity manuals for technology and finance brands that require a deep, modern blue-violet for visual impact. If matching an existing brand standard, always review your specifications and evaluate a physical Pantone reference alongside a painted sample to ensure correct visual alignment.
When applying PMS 2738 C to metal or over existing powder-coated parts, thoroughly clean and scuff the surface to ensure good adhesion. Keep in mind that the gloss and type of base substrate can change how PMS 2738 C appears, especially with its very dark, saturated character. Final color may look different on metal compared to other materials or samples. Always test on the actual part using planned coatings and finishes, and review the result under expected lighting conditions.
For accurate comparison of PMS 2738 C, use the same substrate, finish, and application method across all samples. Evaluate colors under the lighting that matches the installed setting, as both color and gloss can change noticeably with lighting conditions. Wait for samples to fully dry or cure before judging the final match, especially since PMS 2738 C is very sensitive to gloss and light.
To order PMS 2738 C paint, select the preferred paint format such as spray paint or another available option. Choose the sheen, quantity, and any required features for your project. Confirm that PMS 2738 C is the correct Pantone code specified in your brand guidelines. If color accuracy is essential for a high-visibility project, consider requesting a sample first to confirm appearance on your intended material and in your lighting conditions before placing a full order.
Unfortunately, no.
Some manufacturers specify Pantone colors as touch up for their products, but Pantone does not work well as a proxy for a touch-up solution (for a litany of reasons such as it doesn't include sheen and Pantone color tolerances are not tight enough for touch up). When we match Pantone colors we are matching to a swatch in a Pantone book - not to your product.
The only way we can provide a touch-up solution for your product is for you send us a part. We would use the part to create a touch-up grade match. Unfortunately, there isn't an effective way to 'spec' the color well enough to produce a touch up without the part.
Read more about using Pantone for touch-up.
Learn more about our paint color matching service.
To make spray paint matched to Pantone PMS 2738 C. MyPerfectColor uses an acrylic enamel which is a fast-drying durable coating suitable for interior or exterior use. MyPerfectColor custom spray paint enables you to conveniently achieve a professional spray-smooth finish in any color in any sheen. It sticks well to most surfaces including metal, plastics, powder-coatings, cabinets and primed or previously painted wood.
The 11oz spray will cover about 20 square feet per coat. Keep in mind that it is difficult to gauge how much spray you'll need as it is highly dependent on how it is applied. It is better to have too much than run short.
While MyPerfectColor can provide PMS 2738 C in paint, we don't provide any crossover information. We've found that every paint company offers its own unique selection of colors and rarely does a color have an exact equivalent in another company's color collection, especially for a color collection like Pantone which is designed for bright colors and inks.