how do they “smoke” the clear part for let’s say an F-16?
I’ve always wondered about that![8D]
I simply airbrush “smoke” or similar colour onto the clear parts.
They are also available in spraycans from the same makers as the model paint.
Granted never done it on a plane, but it works well for Motorbikes and SF kits.
Another possibility is to take RIT dye that is intended to dye clothing, mix it in warm water and let the canopy soak in that. Keep a close eye on it, because once it starts to pick up the dye, it gets dark fairly quickly. Have the water just slightly warm to the touch. Too hot and you will distort the parts. Black dye will give you the “smoked” look and yellow dye will give that gold color some canopies have.
Darwin [alien]
A bit of dye. or paint added to the future dipping process will accomplish the same effect, but make sure you test the mix on a piece of spare transparent sprue or a redundant part first.
I think Swanny’s site has a section on future where it’s covered.