Pantone™ PMS 397 C

PMS 397 C is part of the Pantone Matching System and is specified in brand standards to ensure a recognizable and consistent color identity across all branded displays and marketing environments. Using PMS 397 C as the reference color when ordering paint or finishes means everyone involved is targeting the same visual result, regardless of the material or production method. This supports unified brand presentation, especially important in marketing displays, signage, pop-ups, and physical prototypes where visual consistency reinforces brand recognition.

For the best results and color accuracy with PMS 397 C paint, begin by cleaning the substrate to remove dust, grease, or residue. Use a degreaser if needed. Lightly scuff glossy surfaces to promote adhesion. It is important to use a clean, neutral, and opaque primer, especially with highly saturated colors like PMS 397 C, to achieve uniform coverage and vibrancy. Always test a small spot first to confirm adhesion and appearance before proceeding with the full application.

Durability of PMS 397 C spray paint depends on substrate prep, paint type, and environment. Proper surface preparation and the use of recommended primers lay the foundation for adhesion and longevity. For high-traffic or outdoor environments, consider options with added topcoats or select the paint chemistry based on exposure to weather, abrasion, or UV. It is important to communicate your use conditions when ordering to select the best format for your application.

PMS 397 C is intended for brand color reproduction in new displays, signage, or models where visual impact and consistency with the Pantone standard are the priority. For spot touch-up or precise part repair where the appearance with installed finishes and lighting is critical, it is best to send a physical part for a dedicated color match. This approach helps avoid visible inconsistencies that can arise from base material and finish differences.

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 397 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 397 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.