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PMS 287 C, part of the Pantone PMS System / collection, is a strong, high-impact blue characterized by a deep, vivid presence and distinctly cool tone. Its vibe is decisive, authoritative, technical, bold, and professional. The color’s visual properties and consistent specification make it notable in branding contexts where clear differentiation and optical clarity are priorities.

PMS 287 C appears distinctly dark; it registers a low LRV of 4.1, indicating minimal reflected light. The color is notably cool, with a blue base and no visible warm undertone. PMS 287 C demonstrates high chroma, producing a saturated, vivid appearance. The underlying undertone is clean and neutral to subtly purple-blue, with no significant green or red shift. PMS 287 C is visually sensitive to finish; gloss amplifies vibrancy, while matte or flat finishes subdue its intensity.

PMS 287 C is often used for branding and institutional graphics requiring precise, repeatable blue coloration. The color is widely specified for exterior and interior signage, display elements, and trade show environments needing color consistency.

PMS 287 C works well in settings that require a distinctive, highly recognizable blue that can anchor brand-driven spaces or components. Its low reflectance makes it stand out strongly against white or light backgrounds but may appear exceptionally deep or near-black in dim or indirect light. The color’s high saturation means that surface preparation must be thorough to avoid unevenness, and highly pigmented formulations may require additional coats for full coverage. When evaluating this color for a project, always review large-scale samples under intended lighting conditions; PMS 287 C may shift appearance depending on finish, which can substantially affect perceived vibrancy compared to less chromatic blues.

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 287 C is widely cited as a core color in the branding of institutions such as Penn State University and IBM. - PMS 287 C is frequently associated with NCAA Division I athletics programs for uniforms and facilities requiring a consistent, recognizable deep blue. - This color is commonly referenced in higher education identity guidelines for university logos, publications, and environmental graphics.

Similar colors:
PMS 293 C: Similar in hue but slightly lighter and more vibrant, creating a more pronounced visual pop in large fields.

PMS 288 C: Slightly deeper and more muted than PMS 287 C, with a marginally higher perceived darkness.

PMS 286 C: Brighter and more saturated, resulting in a bolder and more electric effect compared to PMS 287 C.

Product Data

About Pantone and MyPerfectColor

MyPerfectColor is the official licensee of Pantone and authorized to reproduce the Pantone™ PMS 287 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 287 C color and produce outstanding results.

MyPerfectColor matches the Pantone PMS 287 C color based on Pantone color publications. The PMS 287 C color shown on this website are computer video simulations of the PANTONE PMS 287 C Color and may not match PANTONE®-identified Color standards. Refer to current PANTONE Publications to obtain accurate color.

The Pantone PMS 287 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.

Pantone

Frequently Asked Questions About Pantone™ PMS 287 C

How does changing the finish affect the visual match of Pantone PMS 287 C paint?

The finish you choose for Pantone PMS 287 C can have a major effect on how the color is perceived. Glossy finishes tend to make PMS 287 C appear more vibrant and lighter, while matte or flat finishes mute the color and make it look deeper or less saturated. Comparing a high-gloss sample to a matte sample of PMS 287 C may look like two different colors, even though they are mixed to the same Pantone target. Always review paint samples of PMS 287 C in the intended finish and lighting environment before making final decisions for brand-driven projects.

When should I use a primer before applying Pantone PMS 287 C paint?

You should use a primer with Pantone PMS 287 C paint when applying to bare, porous, or previously uncoated surfaces, or when switching between material types like metal, plastic, or wood. Priming is especially important with highly saturated colors like PMS 287 C to ensure uniform coverage and true color representation. Primer requirements vary by substrate and paint type, so review the product information and material guidance for your application. Using the right primer promotes better adhesion and helps achieve brand-consistent results.

What safety practices should I follow when using paint matched to Pantone PMS 287 C?

Always follow the safety instructions and handling recommendations specific to the product you select for Pantone PMS 287 C. Review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for information on ventilation, protective equipment, and safe usage procedures. This is important whether you are using spray paint, brush-on formats, or other finishes. Strictly follow all directions to minimize exposure to fumes and consult the SDS for disposal practices. Each paint format and formulation may have different requirements, so follow all provided safety guidance.

What is the best way to apply spray paint for Pantone PMS 287 C?

For the best results with Pantone PMS 287 C spray paint, apply several light coats rather than one heavy coat. Allow appropriate drying time between coats, as noted on the product label, to prevent runs or uneven finish. Lighter coats help build an even, brand-consistent color and reduce the risk of surface defects. PMS 287 C is highly saturated, so multiple coats may be needed for full coverage and accurate color appearance.

How quickly will I receive my paint matched to Pantone PMS 287 C?
All paint is custom-made to order. While most orders ship within 48 hours, the lead-time for paint made to match Pantone PMS 287 C depends on the type of paint needed. Interior and exterior house paints usually ship within 1 to 3 business days, while custom spray paint typically takes 3-5 business days to ship. The transit time depends on your location and the shipping method you choose. If your need is immediate, select Expedited Production during checkout. Most expedited production orders ship within 24 hours on business days. Please contact MyPerfectColor if you are concerned about a specific deadline. We do our best to make sure you get your paint on time. Learn more about paint lead times at MyPerfectColor.
Can I use the Pantone PMS 287 C for touch up?

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.

How do I buy paint in the Pantone PMS 287 C?
Many types of paint are available for Pantone PMS 287 C with no minimum order quantities. MyPerfectColor offers spray paint, paint pens, touch up bottles, water-based acrylics, epoxies, urethanes and a variety of other paints. Select the Paint Type button above to get started. Learn more about buying paint at MyPerfectColor.
How much area will one spray can cover? And what is Pantone PMS 287 C spray paint made of?

To make spray paint matched to Pantone PMS 287 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.

How do I get the SDS (Safety Data Sheet) for paint matched to Pantone PMS 287 C?
The Pantone PMS 287 C is the color and the SDS is based on the type of paint used to make the color. You can find Safety Data Sheets here for our most popular products.
Do I need a primer for Pantone PMS 287 C?
The need for primer for Pantone PMS 287 C depends on the type of paint, the substrate being painted and where it will be located. See our Primer Selection Table to see what primer you might need and learn more about when you might need a primer. Most people don't use a primer for a touch up paint application, but a primer may improve adhesion and is typically recommended for exterior applications.
How do I convert PMS 287 C to a different color from another paint company?

While MyPerfectColor can provide PMS 287 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.