EMM Colad Spray Paint Color Test Card
Why EMM Colad Spray Paint Color Test Cards Stand Apart
Getting a paint color match right the first time is one of the most critical skills in automotive refinishing — and it starts long before a drop of paint ever touches a panel. EMM Colad, the Colad-brand line distributed by EMM International, has built a reputation in professional body shops worldwide for taking this step seriously. Their Spray Paint Color Test Cards are purpose-engineered tools that let technicians confirm color accuracy, opacity, and coverage on a controlled surface before committing to the vehicle.
Two Distinct Formats: Metal and Plasticized Paper
EMM Colad offers spray-out cards in two primary constructions, each suited to different shop environments. The classic Metal Spray Sample Cards are rigid test panels that provide a stable, reusable-style substrate for spraying out color formulas. These metal cards feature a 15 mm diameter hole that allows the technician to hold the sprayed card directly over the vehicle surface for a side-by-side color comparison — a simple but remarkably effective verification method.
The newer Plasticized Paper Spray Sample Cards represent a more recent innovation from the Colad line. These lightweight, flexible cards are produced from plasticized paper and are made with 15% recycled material, reflecting EMM's commitment to more sustainable shop practices. Because they have no sharp edges, they can be held against or near a painted surface without risking scratches — a genuine ergonomic and practical improvement over traditional metal panels.
Built-In Coverage and Opacity Indicators
Both card formats share a thoughtful design philosophy. Each card includes a central coverage guide line — sometimes called a black strip — that helps the painter evaluate the opacity and hiding power of the applied coating. This means a single spray-out card delivers two key pieces of information simultaneously: color accuracy via the 15 mm hole and opacity/coverage via the indicator strip. That dual-function design saves time and reduces material waste in high-throughput refinishing environments.
Compatible with All Major Paint Systems
One of the most practical strengths of EMM Colad's test cards is their broad compatibility. Whether a shop runs waterborne paint systems or conventional solvent-based coatings, these cards are designed to perform reliably across both chemistries — making them a single-SKU solution for mixed-workflow facilities.
Color Options and Pack Sizes for Every Shop
EMM Colad's spray-out card lineup is available in four background shades — white, light grey, medium grey, and dark grey — allowing technicians to select a neutral base that best contrasts with the color being matched. Pack sizes range from 25-card packs ideal for smaller collision shops or spot-repair work, up to 100-card packs suited for high-volume production environments. The range is part of a broader Colad ecosystem that includes spray sample cabinets and magnetic holders designed to keep cards organized and accessible at the spray booth.
Trusted by Professionals Across Industries
EMM Colad is part of EMM International, whose Colad, Finixa, and Hamach brands collectively support paint professionals across automotive refinish, OEM, marine, aviation, and decorative markets. Colad's spray-out cards are a foundational tool in that ecosystem — a low-cost, high-confidence checkpoint that experienced refinishers rely on daily to protect quality and avoid costly re-sprays.