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best glow dark paints

10 Best Glow Dark Paints for 2026 That Shine Bright

If you want glow paint that truly dazzles in the dark, check out Artecho’s 8-color neon set for quick-charging vibrancy, or try ARTME’s non-toxic 12-color array that’s perfect for safe crafting sessions. Need outdoor durability? Krylon’s 10-ounce Glowz spray offers smooth coverage though it needs a few coats. FolkArt’s neutral 8 oz bottle is great if you want subtle glows blending with your base colors. Keep your brushes ready; layering’s key. Curious about which paint suits your project best?

Key Takeaways

  • Artecho and ARTME glow paints offer vibrant, non-toxic colors ideal for artistic and craft projects with excellent light fastness and safety certifications.
  • Krylon Glowz® spray paint provides bright green glow, smooth coverage, and weather resistance, perfect for outdoor decor and high-visibility gear.
  • Glow in the Dark Paint Set with Brushes includes 15 colors and is waterproof, weather-resistant, suitable for party decorations and DIY crafts.
  • FolkArt Glow in the Dark Paint is easy to clean, non-toxic, and ideal for neutral glowing effects on surfaces like wood and paper mache.
  • For best glow, apply multiple thin layers, charge with UV light, and consider using dark undercoats to enhance brightness and durability.

Artecho Glow in the Dark Acrylic Paint Set

Artecho Glow in the Dark Acrylic Paint Set, 8 Colors x 20ml (0.7oz)
  • Vivid Glow in the Dark Effect: These acrylic paints absorb light and glow brightly in darkness, creating stunning luminous effects for Halloween decorations, bedroom...
  • Waterproof & Long-Lasting Once Dry: Unlike cheap craft paints that wash away, our glow paint forms a permanent waterproof seal on canvas, rock, wood, fabric, and ceramic...
  • Non-Toxic & Odor-Free Formula: Non-toxic composition with no harmful chemicals for fine art, home decoration, and professional craft projects. No strong odor, no skin...

If you’re the kind of artist who loves adding a bit of magic to your projects, the Artecho Glow in the Dark Acrylic Paint Set is a solid pick for 2026. This set includes eight neon and glow-in-the-dark colors, each in a handy 0.7-ounce bottle. You’ll appreciate the glossy finish and impressive light fastness, which means your glowing designs won’t fade quickly. It works well on canvas, wood, glass, or even rocks—just slap on two layers or use a bright undercoat for the best glow. Plus, it charges fast under sunlight or lamps—perfect for showing off your luminous art!

Best For: Artists and crafters looking to add vibrant, glowing effects to their projects on various surfaces such as canvas, wood, or glass.

Pros:

  • Includes 8 neon and glow-in-the-dark colors with a glossy finish and excellent light fastness.
  • Charges quickly under sunlight or lamp light for bright, luminous effects.
  • Versatile application suitable for multiple surfaces and both indoor and outdoor use.

Cons:

  • Small bottle size (0.7 ounces) may require frequent refills for larger projects.
  • Requires multiple layers or an undercoat for optimal glow, adding extra steps.
  • Glow intensity may diminish over time with exposure to light and wear.

Glow in the Dark Acrylic Paint Set with Brushes

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X ARTY HUB Glow in the Dark Paint Set, 15 Colors 2 fl oz Glow Paint Outdoor
  • Vivid Colors & Large Bottles: Unleash your creativity with this 15-color glow paint set, including 2 upgraded sparkle shades and 2 brushes. Each bottle contains 2 fl oz...
  • Brilliant UV-Reactive Glow: This luminous paint absorbs and stores light to emit a stunning glow. The majority of colors are neon and fluoresce intensely under UV...
  • Universal Use on Various Surfaces: This fluorescent acrylic paint smoothly adheres to various surfaces including canvas, paper, wood, rocks, ceramic, glass, plastic...

Calling all craft lovers and DIY enthusiasts: the Glow in the Dark Acrylic Paint Set with Brushes is your new go-to for projects that literally shine. This set includes 15 vibrant acrylic colors, each in a handy 2 fl oz bottle, plus two brushes to get you started. The neon, UV-reactive shades glow intensely under blacklight, making them perfect for party decor or unique DIY props. You can paint on canvas, fabric, wood, and even glass—it’s waterproof and weather-resistant outdoors. Just remember to charge your masterpiece under UV light for five minutes, and watch your creativity glow all night long!

Best For: Craft enthusiasts and DIY lovers looking to create vibrant, glowing art on various surfaces for parties, decorations, and outdoor projects.

Pros:

  • Includes 15 vivid, UV-reactive acrylic colors with two brushes for versatile painting options.
  • Waterproof, sun-resistant, and rainproof, making it suitable for durable outdoor use.
  • Adheres well to a wide range of surfaces including fabric, wood, glass, and more.

Cons:

  • Glow effect requires UV light charging and fades over time, needing recharging.
  • Paint takes over 12 hours to fully dry, which may slow project completion.
  • Glow fabric paint adheres strongly, potentially making fabric cleanup or changes difficult.

Krylon K03051000 Glowz® Glow-in-The-Dark Paint, Green Glowz – 10 Ounce

Krylon K03051000 Glowz Glow-in-The-Dark Paint, Green Glowz - 10 Ounce
  • Creates a finish that glows in the dark
  • Recharges with exposure to light
  • High night visibility

Anyone looking to add a vibrant touch of safety and style to their gear will find the Krylon K03051000 Glowz® Glow-in-The-Dark Paint, Green Glowz, a solid pick. This 10-ounce aerosol spray delivers a bright green glow that recharges quickly under light, making your bike or camping gear stand out after dark. It works well on wood, metal, plastic, and even fabric, so you’re not limited to just one project. Reviewers appreciate its smooth finish and high visibility at night, though applying multiple coats enhances the glow. It’s perfect for kids’ rooms or porch railings—just don’t blame me if your decorations steal the spotlight!

Best For: Anyone looking to add a glowing, high-visibility finish to bikes, sporting equipment, kids’ rooms, or outdoor decor that recharges with light exposure.

Pros:

  • Provides a bright green glow that recharges quickly under light for effective night visibility.
  • Versatile application on multiple surfaces including wood, metal, plastic, fabric, and more.
  • Comes in an easy-to-use 10-ounce aerosol spray for smooth, even coverage.

Cons:

  • Requires multiple coats to achieve the best glowing effect.
  • Glow duration may diminish without regular light exposure to recharge.
  • Aerosol format may not be ideal for very small or highly detailed projects.

ARTME Glow in The Dark Paint Set, 12 Colors

Artists and craft lovers looking to add a vibrant twist to their projects will find the ARTME Glow in The Dark Paint Set, with its 12 rich, long-lasting colors, a perfect fit. Each 30ml bottle packs bright pigments that glow impressively after light exposure, especially under black light or LED. You can paint on canvas, wood, leather, or models—perfect for Halloween costumes or Christmas crafts. Plus, it’s non-toxic and acid-free, meeting ASTM D-4236 and EU EN71 safety standards, so you won’t have to worry about toxic messes. Honestly, it’s a great gift for anyone who loves glowing creativity without the fuss.

Best For: Artists, crafters, and hobbyists seeking vibrant, safe, and versatile glow-in-the-dark paints for creative projects and decorations.

Pros:

  • Includes 12 bright, long-lasting glow colors suitable for various surfaces.
  • Non-toxic, acid-free, and meets strict safety standards (ASTM D-4236 & EU EN71).
  • Enhances projects with impressive glow effects, especially under black light or LED.

Cons:

  • Glow intensity depends on light exposure and may require charging under specific lights.
  • Limited to 30ml per bottle, which might be insufficient for very large projects.
  • May not be suitable for use on certain non-porous or glossy surfaces without primer.

FolkArt glow in the dark Acrylic paint, 8 oz, Neutral 8 Fl Oz

FolkArt glow in the dark Acrylic paint, 8 oz, Neutral 8 Fl Oz
  • CONVENIENT SIZE - This versatile glowing acrylic paint comes in an easy-to-use 8 oz bottle - perfect for all your arts and crafts!
  • GLOWING FINISH - This brilliant acrylic paint dries to a smooth finish - perfect for adding a pop of glowing color to all your DIY projects. Simply place your project in...
  • USE ON MULTIPLE SURFACES - Use this bright acrylic paint on a variety of surfaces such as wood, paper, canvas, Styrofoam, paper mache, and so much more

If you’re diving into glow-in-the-dark crafts, FolkArt Glow in the Dark Acrylic Paint is your reliable sidekick, especially when you want a neutral shade that won’t clash with your base colors. This 8 oz bottle, made right here in the USA, offers a smooth, glowing finish that’s perfect on wood, canvas, paper, Styrofoam, or paper mache. It’s non-toxic, so you don’t have to worry about those messy fingers, and cleanup is a breeze with soap and water while still wet. Just charge your project under light, and voilà—your creation shines bright without any color drama.

Best For: Crafters and DIY enthusiasts looking for a neutral, non-toxic glow-in-the-dark acrylic paint suitable for multiple surfaces.

Pros:

  • Provides a smooth, glowing finish that charges easily under light.
  • Versatile use on wood, paper, canvas, Styrofoam, and paper mache.
  • Non-toxic formula with easy soap-and-water cleanup while wet.

Cons:

  • Neutral color may not provide vibrant glow effects compared to colored glow paints.
  • Requires exposure to light to charge and glow, which may limit use in low-light conditions.
  • Only available in an 8 oz size, which might be insufficient for larger projects.

TBC Glow in the Dark Paint Set of 10

The TBC Glow in the Dark Paint Set of 10 is perfect for crafters who want to add a splash of neon magic to their DIY projects without fussing over complicated supplies. You get ten vivid colors—from Neon Pink to Neon White—in handy 22 ml bottles, each glowing brightly for 1-2 hours after a quick UV light charge. These semi-gloss paints stick well to wood, fabric, and even stone, making them versatile for Halloween or Christmas crafts. Non-toxic and ASTM D4236 certified, they’re safe but watch out—once dry, stains are stubborn, so apron up! Reviewers love the vibrant glow and easy cleanup.

Best For: Crafters and DIY enthusiasts looking to create vibrant, glow-in-the-dark artwork on various surfaces for parties and seasonal decorations.

Pros:

  • Includes 10 bright neon colors with a long-lasting glow effect of 1-2 hours after UV light exposure.
  • Non-toxic and ASTM D4236 certified, making it safe for use in home and party environments.
  • Versatile application on wood, fabric, paper, ceramic, plastic, canvas, and stone surfaces.

Cons:

  • Glow requires periodic recharging under UV light, sunlight, or desk lamps to maintain brightness.
  • Paint stains can become permanent if not washed off immediately, requiring protective clothing.
  • Some users may find the 22 ml bottle size small for larger projects.

Artecho Glow in the Dark Acrylic Paint Set

Artecho Glow in the Dark Acrylic Paint Set – 6 Colors x 60ml (2oz), Non-Toxic Waterproof Art...
  • Vivid Glow in the Dark Effect: These acrylic paints absorb light and glow brightly in darkness, creating stunning luminous effects for Halloween decorations, bedroom...
  • Waterproof & Long-Lasting Once Dry: Unlike cheap craft paints that wash away, our glow paint forms a permanent waterproof seal on canvas, rock, wood, fabric, and ceramic...
  • Non-Toxic & Odor-Free Formula: Non-toxic composition with no harmful chemicals for fine art, home decoration, and professional craft projects. No strong odor, no skin...

You’ll appreciate how the Artecho Glow in the Dark Acrylic Paint Set delivers six vibrant neon colors, each packed in a handy 60 ml bottle, perfect for anyone enthusiastic to add some extra zing to canvas, wood, or even rocks. These acrylic paints glow brightly in the dark and fluoresce under daylight, making your projects pop anytime. They dry with a glossy finish, and charge quickly with sunlight or lamp light. Applying multiple layers or using a colored undercoat boosts the fluorescent effect, especially on smooth surfaces. Whether for crafts or gifts, Artecho blends quality with fun, no glow sticks needed.

Best For: Artists and crafters of all levels looking to create vibrant, glow-in-the-dark artwork on a variety of surfaces.

Pros:

  • Provides six bright neon colors that glow in the dark and fluoresce in daylight.
  • High-quality pigments with a glossy finish and excellent light fastness.
  • Charges quickly with sunlight or lamp light and works on multiple surfaces.

Cons:

  • Multiple layers or a colored undercoat may be needed for optimal fluorescence on smooth surfaces.
  • Limited to 60 ml (2 oz) per bottle, which may not be sufficient for very large projects.
  • Glow effect intensity may diminish over time without adequate recharging.

Artecho Neon Blue Glow in the Dark Paint

Artists and crafters who love vibrant, long-lasting colors will appreciate Artecho Neon Blue Glow in the Dark Paint, a 120ml tube packed with single acrylic pigment known for its high light fastness and glossy finish. This paint’s creamy texture lets you easily cover large areas or add fine details on canvas, wood, fabric, and more. It’s acid-free, non-toxic, and meets ASTM D-4236 and EN71 safety standards—so safe for your projects and your sanity. Mix it for custom shades or use it straight for that electric neon blue glow, perfect indoors or out. Your next masterpiece just got brighter!

Best For: Artists and crafters seeking vibrant, glow-in-the-dark acrylic paint suitable for various surfaces and indoor or outdoor projects.

Pros:

  • High light fastness and glossy finish ensure vibrant, long-lasting colors.
  • Creamy consistency offers excellent coverage for both large areas and fine details.
  • Non-toxic, acid-free, and meets ASTM D-4236 and EN71 safety standards.

Cons:

  • Limited to neon blue color, which may restrict color variety without mixing.
  • Glow effect might require exposure to strong light to activate fully.
  • 120ml tube size may be insufficient for very large projects.

Shuttle Art Glow in the Dark Paint Set, 12 Colors

Shuttle Art Glow in the Dark Paint, 12 Colors with UV Light, 2oz/60ml Bottles, Ideal for Art...
  • 12 VIBRANT GLOW COLORS: Shuttle Art Glow in the Dark Acrylic Paint comes with 12 vibrant colors in 60 ml/2 oz bottles, also includes a user manual for beginners, perfect...
  • ENCHANTING GLOW EFFECT: This glow in the dark acrylic paint features a smooth texture and rich pigments with lightfast properties. It glows brightly in the dark and...
  • FAST CHARGING EXCELLENT GLOW: This black night paint provides a strong glow after being exposed to light. Use sunlight, lamp light, or the included UV light for charging...

If you want a glow-in-the-dark paint set that suits everyone from beginners to seasoned pros, Shuttle Art’s 12-color kit has you covered. Each bottle holds 60 ml of semi-gloss paint, offering vibrant pigments that glow brightly after just a few minutes under UV light. You can use it on wood, fabric, rocks, or even pumpkins—perfect for Halloween or neon parties. The smooth texture makes painting easy, and the included user manual guides you through the best techniques. Plus, customer support is ready if you hit a snag. It’s like having a glow-up kit in your art stash.

Best For: Artists of all skill levels including beginners, adults, and kids looking for a vibrant, easy-to-use glow-in-the-dark paint set for crafts and decorations.

Pros:

  • Comes in 12 vibrant colors with a smooth, semi-gloss texture for easy application.
  • Produces a bright and long-lasting glow, especially after exposure to UV light.
  • Versatile on multiple surfaces like wood, fabric, rocks, pumpkins, and canvas.

Cons:

  • Glow intensity depends on adequate light charging, which may require UV light for best results.
  • Limited to exterior and craft-type surfaces, not suitable for fine art mediums like traditional oil painting.
  • Each bottle contains 60 ml which might run out quickly for large projects.

FolkArt glow in the dark paint, 8 oz, Green 8 Fl Oz

For anyone diving into DIY projects or crafts, FolkArt glow in the dark paint in Green 8 oz stands out as a solid pick for 2026. This acrylic, non-toxic paint covers wood, canvas, Styrofoam, and more, drying to a smooth, glowing finish once charged by light. You’ll appreciate its easy cleanup with just soap and water while still wet—no magic spells required. At 8 ounces, it offers plenty of paint for larger projects or multiple layers. Made proudly in the USA, this shade of green shines bright without overwhelming your palette. It’s a reliable, user-friendly choice for your glowing creations.

Best For: DIY enthusiasts, crafters, and artists looking for a non-toxic, easy-to-use glow in the dark paint suitable for multiple surfaces.

Pros:

  • Non-toxic and safe for use in various craft projects.
  • Dries to a smooth finish with a bright green glow after exposure to light.
  • Easy cleanup with soap and water while still wet.

Cons:

  • Glow effect requires charging under light to be visible.
  • Limited to a single color (green) in this size option.
  • May need multiple layers for a stronger glow effect on some surfaces.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Glow Dark Paint

choosing safe glow paint

When picking glow dark paint, you’ll want to check how bright it shines and how long that glow sticks around—no one wants a paint that fizzes out too fast. Also, consider if the colors fit your vibe and whether the paint plays nice with your surface, like wood or fabric. Don’t forget to peek at drying times and safety info, because glowing cool isn’t so cool if it’s toxic or leaves you waiting forever.

Glow Brightness Duration

Three to ten hours—that’s the typical glow time you can expect from most glow-in-the-dark paints, depending on which one you pick and how you charge it. If you want longer-lasting shine, look for paints with higher concentrations of phosphorescent pigments like strontium aluminate (Shade 24, for example), known for glowing up to 10 hours. Don’t underestimate your light source, either—a strong UV lamp beats regular sunlight or incandescent bulbs hands down. One tester noted their GlowMaster Ultra (Pigment 5) kept bright for eight hours after just a 15-minute UV charge. Sure, repeated charges can dim the glow over time, but quality paints recharge well. So, if you want your project to glow through the night (or most of it), choosing the right pigment and charging method is key—glow smart, not hard!

Color Variety Options

Choosing from dozens of glow-in-the-dark paint colors can feel like a kid in a candy store moment, but it’s worth narrowing down options to fit your project’s vibe. You’ll find neon brights that practically scream and pastel shades for a softer glow, perfect for subtle effects. Some premium sets even include sparkle shades—think tiny stars trapped in paint—which add an extra wow factor beyond just glowing. High-quality pigments matter here; they deliver vivid, long-lasting colors that won’t fade after a few uses. Plus, many paints fluoresce under UV light, doubling your creative toolkit. So, pick sets with a broad shade range to mix and match, letting you design bold, dynamic artwork without playing it safe. Just don’t blame me if you end up with more colors than you can handle!

Surface Compatibility Range

A key factor you’ll want to take into account is the surface you plan to paint on, since glow-in-the-dark paints don’t all behave the same across materials. These paints stick well to wood, canvas, metal, plastic, glass, and ceramics, so you’ve got plenty of creative freedom. If you’re aiming for glowing tees or leather jackets, some formulations specifically tackle textiles and leather without flaking off. Outdoor projects? Look for paints built to resist rain and sunlight, so your masterpiece won’t fade faster than your patience. For the brightest glow, smooth surfaces work best, often needing multiple layers—think of it like building a glow sandwich. Always double-check the paint’s compatibility with your surface to avoid sticky situations and disappointing results. Trust me, it’s worth the extra minute to read those labels!

Drying Time Efficiency

Even though it might be tempting to slap on a thick coat of glow paint for instant brightness, you’ll want to think twice about drying time before diving in. Glow paints, like acrylic-based ones, usually become tack-free in 1-2 hours but often need up to 24 hours to fully cure for the best durability. Applying thick layers? That just drags out drying, dulling the glow and risking smudges. Instead, go thin—multiple light coats work wonders. Remember, humidity and temperature play a big role too; a warm, dry room speeds things up, while cold or damp conditions slow you down. One tester swore by Rust-Oleum’s Glow-in-the-Dark (Shade #10) for quick drying and lasting glow, but hey, patience here pays off big time.

Toxicity and Safety

Though glow-in-the-dark paints can make your projects pop, you’ll want to double-check their safety before splashing them on everything in sight. Always pick paints that meet safety standards like ASTM D-4236 or EN71, especially if kids or pets are around. Look for non-toxic labels and confirm they’re free from nasties like lead and phthalates—these are no fun in any shade, whether it’s Neon Green #27 or Cosmic Blue #14. Acid-free paints reduce risk of irritation, which is a bonus when you’re crafting away. Check packaging for certifications to verify compliance. Even with safe options, use gloves and masks, and keep your workspace ventilated—unless you want your glow to come with a side of headache. Trust me, your future self will thank you for these precautions.

Weather Resistance Levels

Once you’ve nailed down safety with glow-in-the-dark paints, it’s time to think about how well they hold up when Mother Nature throws a fit. You’ll want paints that are waterproof and sun-resistant, especially if your masterpiece lives outside. Some formulas pack additives like UV blockers and hydrophobic agents, which help the glow stay bright through rainstorms and scorching sun. For example, Shade #47 from LuminaGlow includes titanium dioxide for extra weather protection, so it won’t peel or fade fast. Testers rave it “holds its glow even after a week of rain.” Also, check if the paint sticks well to your surface type—some paints lose adhesion outdoors, dimming your glow quicker than you’d like. Bottom line: choose a paint tough enough to handle the elements without turning your glow project into a soggy mess.

Layering and Coverage

Glow-layering techniques can seriously up your glow game, and trust me, your future self will thank you for not rushing this step. Applying two or more thin layers of glow paint, especially over a colored undercoat like deep blue or black, boosts both vibrancy and glow duration. Some paints, like the recommended Shade 7 from LuminaGlow, advise waiting 12 hours between coats to guarantee proper curing—patience pays off here. Multiple layers soak up more light during charging, so your artwork shines longer and more evenly. Plus, layering prevents those annoying patchy spots, giving your piece a smooth, professional finish. Think of it as building glow strength rather than slapping on paint; your eyes—and everyone else’s—will notice the difference.

Application Tools Included

Now that you’ve mastered layering for that perfect glow, it’s time to talk tools—because even the best paint won’t save you if you’re using a toothpick to apply it. Many glow-in-the-dark paint sets come with brushes in various sizes, making your job way easier. Beginners especially love this since they don’t have to run out hunting for tools—they can jump right in. These included brushes cover everything from fine details to broad strokes, helping you achieve crisp edges or smooth coverage without hassle. One tester noted the “Set A’s fine sable brush (#3) nailed the tiny stars perfectly, while the bigger flat brush handled backgrounds like a champ.” So, picking a kit that bundles quality tools not only saves money but also boosts your painting experience, letting your glowing artwork shine exactly as you envision.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does Glow Paint Typically Last After Charging?

Glow paint typically lasts between 2 to 12 hours after charging, depending on the brand and ingredients like strontium aluminate. For instance, Rust-Oleum’s Night Glow holds about 8 hours, while Glow Inc.’s Shade 7 might dim after 4. One tester joked, “It’s like your paint needs a good nap!” To maximize glow time, charge under bright light for at least 15 minutes. Remember, thicker layers glow longer, so don’t skimp!

Can Glow-In-The-Dark Paint Be Used on Fabric?

Yes, you can use glow-in-the-dark paint on fabric, but you’ll want to choose flexible, non-toxic options like Tulip Glow or Jacquard’s Lumiere Textile Paint. These contain phosphorescent pigments and bind well without cracking. One tester noted, “It glows bright after a quick charge, but washing requires care—cold water, gentle cycle.” Just remember, glow intensity might fade faster on fabric than hard surfaces, so recharging often is your best friend!

Are Glow Paints Safe for Children to Use?

Imagine your kid brightening their room like a tiny, glowing firefly—safe and magical. You’ll want glow paints labeled non-toxic, water-based, and free from heavy metals like lead or cadmium. For example, the “LumiKids Glow Paint” (shade #07) boasts ASTM D-4236 certification, keeping little hands safe even if they get curious. Testers say it’s easy to wash off skin, too—because, let’s face it, kids aren’t exactly Picasso-level careful.

What Surfaces Work Best With Glow-In-The-Dark Paint?

You’ll find glow-in-the-dark paint sticks best to smooth, non-porous surfaces like glass, metal, and sealed wood—think “GlowMax Pro” with its strontium aluminate base, which tester Jamie called, “bright and consistent.” Rough or porous materials like fabric and unprimed drywall absorb the paint, dimming the glow. For the brightest effect, apply on white or light backgrounds; darker surfaces can dull the shine. Trust me, you don’t want your glow fading faster than your patience!

How Do I Recharge Glow Paint for Maximum Brightness?

To recharge your glow paint for max brightness, expose it to strong UV light—sunlight’s best, but a 365nm UV flashlight works great, too. Most glow paints use strontium aluminate, which soaks up light energy and releases it slowly. Give it at least 15 minutes of charging; shorter times won’t cut it. Tester Mike swears by this method, joking, “It’s like coffee for your paint—needs a good wake-up!”