Paint Advice

History & Uses of HMG Fluorescent Paint Colours

Our HMG fluorescent paint range contains seven selected colours, designed to create bright, eye-catching finishes. However, achieving the intended appearance involves more than choosing a shade and spraying it onto a surface. A fluorescent finish requires a complete three-stage process: white primer, fluorescent colour and compatible Full Gloss Overclear lacquer. The colour coat alone is […]

Reviewed by the Your Spray Paints technical team

Our HMG fluorescent paint range contains seven selected colours, designed to create bright, eye-catching finishes.

However, achieving the intended appearance involves more than choosing a shade and spraying it onto a surface.

A fluorescent finish requires a complete three-stage process: white primer, fluorescent colour and compatible Full Gloss Overclear lacquer. The colour coat alone is not the finished system.

Our seven HMG fluorescent colours

We have matched several shades in our range to the following RAL luminous references:

HMG colourOur corresponding RAL luminous reference
BlazeRAL 2007 Luminous Bright Orange
Fire OrangeRAL 2005 Luminous Orange
Rocket RedRAL 3026 Luminous Bright Red / RAL 3024 Luminous Red
Saturn YellowRAL 1026 Luminous Yellow
Signal GreenSelect by its HMG colour name
Aurora PinkSelect by its HMG colour name
Horizon BlueSelect by its HMG colour name

Aurora Pink is a distinctive bubblegum-style fluorescent pink. Signal Green, Aurora Pink and Horizon Blue are listed by their HMG names without a corresponding RAL reference in our range.

These are seven specific fluorescent shades, rather than a service for turning any ordinary colour reference into a fluorescent paint.

Available paint types and finish

Our fluorescent range is available in:

  • 2K ADC

  • 1K Cellulose

We supply this range in Full Gloss only. Matt, satin and semi-gloss options are not offered.

Fluorescence describes the colour effect, while gloss describes the surface sheen. To achieve the finish supplied within our range, complete the system with the compatible Full Gloss Overclear lacquer.

Why fluorescent paint needs a white base

The background beneath fluorescent paint has a significant effect on its appearance.

A consistent white foundation allows the fluorescent colour to develop its intended brightness. A dark, coloured or patchy background can affect the shade and leave the result looking dull or uneven.

Applying extra fluorescent paint is not a substitute for preparing the correct white base.

Stage 1: prepare the surface and apply white primer

Clean and prepare the surface according to the instructions for your selected products. The substrate may require additional preparation or a specialist adhesion or corrosion-protection primer before the white layer.

Apply the compatible white primer to create an even white foundation, without dark patches or areas showing through.

Allow it to dry and prepare it for overcoating as directed.

Shop White Primer

Stage 2: apply your fluorescent colour

Apply your selected HMG fluorescent paint over the prepared white base, following the product’s application instructions.

Build the colour evenly using the specified coats and intervals. Avoid excessively heavy application, and do not assess the finished appearance before completing the lacquer stage.

For an important project, first apply the entire system to a suitable test piece so you can check the colour and finish together.

Stage 3: complete the finish with Overclear lacquer

Apply the compatible Full Gloss Overclear lacquer, observing the fluorescent paint’s specified overcoating instructions.

This final layer completes the finish and helps improve durability. A suitable UV-protective lacquer can also help reduce degradation of fluorescent pigments, although it cannot prevent fading indefinitely.

Select the lacquer variant specified as compatible with your chosen fluorescent paint system.

Shop Overclear Lacquer

Three stages does not mean three individual coats

The three stages refer to three different products:

White primer → Fluorescent colour → Full Gloss Overclear lacquer

Each stage may require more than one coat to achieve the required coverage and film thickness.

Follow the individual product instructions for preparation, application, drying and recoating. Do not assume the same timings apply to every product in the system.

What should I expect from fluorescent colour durability?

Fluorescent pigments fade more quickly than conventional paint pigments. This is an inherent characteristic of fluorescent finishes and is particularly relevant where the painted item receives regular sunlight.

The compatible Overclear lacquer helps protect the system, but does not make the colour permanently fade-resistant.

HMG specifies Signal Green for small areas only.

Choosing your colour

Screen images cannot reliably reproduce the intensity of a fluorescent finish. Use the displayed swatches as an approximate browsing guide and assess a physical test application before completing your project.

When comparing colours, judge the completed system—including its white base and Full Gloss Overclear—rather than the fluorescent coat on its own.

Ordering HMG fluorescent paint from Your Spray Paints

Choose your shade from our listed range, then select 2K ADC or 1K Cellulose and the quantity required.

Remember to include all three parts of the system:

  • Compatible white primer

  • Your selected fluorescent colour

  • Compatible Full Gloss Overclear lacquer

Browse our HMG Fluorescent colour range to choose your shade and complete your paint system.

More Paint Help

Does every 2K Aerosol have a button or internal hardener vial?

No. Conventional activated 2K aerosols normally contain a separate hardener that is released before use. Your Spray Paints 2K ADC is a non-isocyanate system and does not have an internal hardener vial, so it is important to check which type of 2K product you have ordered.

This depends on the exact products, whether the existing coating has fully cured and their chemical compatibility. Applying a strong solvent-based coating over an incompatible or insufficiently cured finish may cause lifting, wrinkling or another reaction. Check the technical information and test a small area first.

No. Some 2K coloured paints are designed as direct-finish coatings and do not require a separate lacquer. Basecoat systems normally require a compatible clear lacquer, while other finishes may use lacquer for additional protection or a particular appearance. Follow the instructions for the selected paint system.

Always read the product label, instructions and Safety Data Sheet before use. Aerosol paints contain flammable materials and produce airborne mist and vapour, so suitable ventilation, protective clothing, gloves, eye protection and respiratory protection may be required. Keep aerosols away from heat, sparks and other ignition sources.

Conventional isocyanate-containing 2K paints require specialist controls. When sprayed, they can produce an invisible mist capable of causing occupational asthma. They should only be sprayed in an appropriate controlled environment using the respiratory and exposure controls specified by the Health and Safety Executive.

Non-isocyanate 2K ADC does not carry the same isocyanate risk, but it remains a solvent-containing paint product and must still be used in accordance with its instructions and Safety Data Sheet.

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Paint Type

Answer these simple questions and we will guide you to the right type

Painting Metal

Preparation Clean, degrease and lightly key
Primer Etch Primer for bare metal (optional if painted)
Topcoat 1K Poly Synthetic or 1K QAD Enamel (2K ADC also option)
Protection Clear lacquer recommended for outdoor durability

Tip: For best results, key lightly after primer cures.

Painting Plastic

ABS/PVC (most household plastics)

PreparationDegrease and lightly scuff the surface
PrimerPlastic Adhesion Primer recommended
Topcoat1K Poly Synthetic or 2K ADC
OutdoorsClear lacquer improves UV resistance and longevity

Tip: Smooth plastics rely on primer for adhesion — skipping it often causes peeling.

Painting Plastic

PP/PE (Difficult Plastics)

PreparationClean thoroughly; avoid aggressive sanding
PrimerStrong Adhesion Plastic Primer essential
Topcoat1K Poly Synthetic or 2K ADC
TestingAlways test adhesion before full application

Tip: If paint scratches off easily without primer, the plastic is usually PP or PE.

Painting Wood

PreparationSand smooth and seal with wood sealer
PrimerHigh-build primer optional for MDF types
Topcoat1K Cellulose 
OutdoorsUltra Clear lacquer recommended for moisture protection

Tip: Light key between coats gives a smoother, longer-lasting finish.

Concrete/Brick/Masonry

PreparationClean, dry and remove loose material
PrimerMasonry or sealing primer recommended
Topcoat1K QAD Enamel
CoveragePorous surfaces may require extra coats

Tip: Masonry absorbs paint quickly — allow longer drying time between coats.

Glass/Ceramic/Tiles

PreparationDegrease thoroughly; do not sand
Primer Plastic primer recommended
Topcoat1K Poly Synthetic
ProtectionUltra Clear lacquer improves scratch resistance

Tip: Also perform a testing piece before full application.

Automotive

PreparationClean, degrease and sand appropriately
PrimerEpoxy & 2K HB primer as required
TopcoatBasecoat matched to colour
Protection2K Clearcoat 

Tip: Always check the recommendations for each substrate and do not use epoxy and etch primer together.

Other Surfaces

Surface TypeUnusual, mixed or specialist material
RiskIncorrect paint choice may cause adhesion failure
RecommendationTechnical advice required before purchase
Next StepContact our Technical Services team

Tip: If your project involves chemicals, composites, heat, solvents or industrial use, specialist guidance ensures the correct system is used first time.

Paint Coverage Calculator

Estimate how many aerosols or tins you may

need based on approximate spray coverage.

Painting Metal

Preparation Clean, degrease and lightly key
Primer Etch Primer for bare metal (optional if painted)
Topcoat 1K Poly Synthetic or 1K QAD Enamel (2K ADC also option)
Protection Clear lacquer recommended for outdoor durability

Tip: For best results, key lightly after primer cures.

Painting Plastic

ABS/PVC (most household plastics)

PreparationDegrease and lightly scuff the surface
PrimerPlastic Adhesion Primer recommended
Topcoat1K Poly Synthetic or 2K ADC
OutdoorsClear lacquer improves UV resistance and longevity

Tip: Smooth plastics rely on primer for adhesion — skipping it often causes peeling.

Painting Plastic

PP/PE (Difficult Plastics)

PreparationClean thoroughly; avoid aggressive sanding
PrimerStrong Adhesion Plastic Primer essential
Topcoat1K Poly Synthetic or 2K ADC
TestingAlways test adhesion before full application

Tip: If paint scratches off easily without primer, the plastic is usually PP or PE.

Painting Wood

PreparationSand smooth and seal with wood sealer
PrimerHigh-build primer optional for MDF types
Topcoat1K Cellulose 
OutdoorsUltra Clear lacquer recommended for moisture protection

Tip: Light key between coats gives a smoother, longer-lasting finish.

Concrete/Brick/Masonry

PreparationClean, dry and remove loose material
PrimerMasonry or sealing primer recommended
Topcoat1K QAD Enamel
CoveragePorous surfaces may require extra coats

Tip: Masonry absorbs paint quickly — allow longer drying time between coats.

Glass/Ceramic/Tiles

PreparationDegrease thoroughly; do not sand
Primer Plastic primer recommended
Topcoat1K Poly Synthetic
ProtectionUltra Clear lacquer improves scratch resistance

Tip: Also perform a testing piece before full application.

Automotive

PreparationClean, degrease and sand appropriately
PrimerEpoxy & 2K HB primer as required
TopcoatBasecoat matched to colour
Protection2K Clearcoat 

Tip: Always check the recommendations for each substrate and do not use epoxy and etch primer together.

Other Surfaces

Surface TypeUnusual, mixed or specialist material
RiskIncorrect paint choice may cause adhesion failure
RecommendationTechnical advice required before purchase
Next StepContact our Technical Services team

Tip: If your project involves chemicals, composites, heat, solvents or industrial use, specialist guidance ensures the correct system is used first time.

Paint Coverage Calculator

Small item = 0.3m²
Wheel = 0.5m²
Door = 1.5m²