Introducing Relic Blue: A New Metallic Blue Color for KBS MAXX

KBS MAXX now comes in Relic Blue — a metallic blue with a deep, rich tone that many customers describe as a hydro blue or water blue. It is available in both a matte sheen and a gloss sheen, so you can get the exact look you want without needing a separate clear coat to change the finish. Like every KBS MAXX color, Relic Blue is a direct-to-metal 2K urethane coating that delivers UV stability, chemical resistance, and long-term durability in a single application.

What Is Relic Blue?

Relic Blue is the newest addition to the KBS MAXX color lineup. It is a metallic blue that sits in the cool, saturated range of the blue spectrum — the kind of blue that reads differently depending on the light. In direct sunlight, the metallic pigment catches the light and the color has a crisp, vibrant pop. In softer or indirect light, it settles into a deeper, more muted tone.

Customers who have seen it in person frequently compare it to hydro blue or water blue — a blue that has movement and depth rather than a flat, single-tone appearance. The metallic flake in the formula is what gives it that characteristic shift. It is not a candy blue or a pearl blue. It is a true metallic, where the pigment and the flake work together to produce the color.

Available Sheens: Matte and Gloss

Relic Blue is offered in two sheen levels so you can choose the finish that fits your project without an additional clear coat step.

Relic Blue Matte gives you the same metallic blue color in a low-sheen finish. The metallic pigment is still there and still visible — the matte formula diffuses the light rather than reflecting it, so the color reads as deeper and more subdued. This is a popular choice for projects where a flat or satin appearance is preferred, such as equipment, frames, or any surface where glare reduction matters.

Relic Blue Gloss amplifies the metallic characteristics of the color. The reflective finish lets the metallic flake catch and throw light more aggressively, which brings out the full depth and vibrancy of the blue. This is the option for automotive finishes, show-quality work, or anywhere you want the color to have maximum visual impact.

Both versions use the same 2K urethane chemistry and deliver the same level of protection. The only difference is the sheen level.

How to Apply KBS MAXX Relic Blue

KBS MAXX Relic Blue applies the same way as any other KBS MAXX color. Mix at a 3:1 ratio — 3 parts KBS MAXX to 1 part activator — stir thoroughly, and apply within the pot life window. The product can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed. For metallic colors, spraying produces the best results.

Spraying Metallic Colors

When you spray a metallic KBS MAXX color, the metallic pigment in the formula has the opportunity to float to the surface and orient itself evenly across the panel. This is what gives a sprayed metallic finish its characteristic uniform sparkle. An HVLP spray gun with the appropriate tip size for the viscosity of KBS MAXX will give you the most consistent metallic appearance.

Brushing Metallic Colors

Brushing metallic colors is possible and many customers do it successfully, but the technique matters. Brush out the KBS MAXX in the normal way, then let it sit for a few minutes until it begins to set up slightly. At that point, make one final light pass with the brush in a single consistent direction. This helps orient the metallic pigment near the surface rather than leaving it dispersed randomly through the film, which produces a more even metallic appearance when brushed.

Surface Preparation

Like all KBS MAXX colors, Relic Blue performs best on a properly prepared surface. For bare metal, clean the surface thoroughly with KBS Klean to remove oils, grease, and contamination before applying. If the metal has rust, treat it with RustBlast first, then apply RustSeal as a primer coat before topcoating with KBS MAXX.

Common Questions About Relic Blue

Is Relic Blue a hydro blue or water blue?

It is a metallic blue that many people describe using those terms. "Hydro blue" and "water blue" are informal names for blues that fall in a cool, saturated, moderately deep range of the spectrum — the kind of blue that has movement and depth. Relic Blue fits that description well. If you want to confirm it is the right shade before ordering, request a free color sample and compare it in person.

What is the difference between Relic Blue Matte and Relic Blue Gloss?

The color is the same. The sheen level is different. Relic Blue Matte has a low-reflectivity finish that reads as deeper and more subdued. Relic Blue Gloss has a high-reflectivity finish that amplifies the metallic sparkle and the vibrancy of the blue. Both are 2K urethane and both carry the full protection of the KBS MAXX formula. If you are unsure which sheen to choose, request a free color sample — we send out samples in both sheens so you can compare them directly.

Can I get Relic Blue Matte in gloss by adding a clear coat?

Yes. If you want the Relic Blue color in gloss but only have the matte version on hand, you can apply KBS MAXX Clear (Gloss) over the cured matte color coat. The clear coat will bring the finish up to a 90–95% gloss level. See our article on how to change the sheen of any KBS MAXX color for full details on the process.

Can I brush Relic Blue, or does it need to be sprayed?

You can brush it. Spraying produces the most uniform metallic appearance because it allows the metallic pigment to orient evenly across the surface. But brushing works well too — the key is to make one final light pass in a single direction after the product has been on the surface for a few minutes. This helps bring the metallic pigment to the surface and orients it more consistently than leaving the brush marks in multiple directions.

Is Relic Blue available in quarts and gallons?

Yes. KBS MAXX colors, including Relic Blue, are available in multiple sizes. Visit the KBS MAXX product page for current size and pricing options.

What surfaces can I use Relic Blue on?

KBS MAXX is a direct-to-metal 2K urethane topcoat that works on steel, aluminum, and other properly prepared metal surfaces. It is also used on fiberglass, wood, and concrete when properly prepped. Common applications include automotive body panels and trim, motorcycle frames, equipment, railings, trailers, and marine surfaces.