What color/technique should I use to paint auto windows? I have used a light blue in the past; it is okay. I have seen some type of Tamiya green or blue metalflake paint used. Should I vary the colors of the windows of different autos? Seems that would be a good idea. Thanks for the help.
Flash- I am only familiar with the Mini Metals, which come with plastic see through windows. If you are talking about the cast lead or iron jobs (I have one I put away for a rainy weekend) how about painting it whatever color you imagine the interior upholstery would have been and then cut a small piece of clear styrene and use it for the reflective window, itself?
FG: That is a good idea for interior colors. Yes, these are cast solid and have no window opening at all. Also, I am going to try Future floor wax to make a shine. That will be new for me. [ November 30, 2005, 08:53 PM: Message edited by: sapacif ]
I have used a normal lead pencil over the area and was very pleased with the result. Also it is much easier to apply than paint. Regards, Dave
I've personally always used a dark blue (like Royal or Navy) and think that produces a decent result.
I know I'm displeased with flat black as I used on this Lineside van. I do think something glossy would work better. I remember in an old Walthers trucks in thier catalouge having a blended color giving them a reflective look. Not sure if I have the touch for that myself.
There are a lot of possibilities! I've used 50% gloss black 50% aluminum, looks good, especially on lighter colored autos. Dark autos are tougher to successfully paint, IMHO.
Bill Reid wrote an excellent article in the September / October 1993 issue of N-scale magazine on painting vehicles. In the article he recommended Floquil Gunmetal for the windows on solid cast vehicles.
I like to use Model Masters "Oldsmobile Engine Blue" for this. It is a medium-dark blue and has a slight metallic glint to it. To enhance that you can dry brush a little white (or silver) to add that "Reflective Look" that was so commonly seen in the Magnuson / Walthers catalog photos. (Best to look at an old Walthers catalog to get the feel for the direction to dry brush - it is done on about a 45 degree angle and is most commonly started at the top of the window near the bend where the window has curvature - practice on a plastic scrap before applying to automobile). See the catalogs for the flat window application techniques/examples. A little tricky - but very do-able.
Whatever color you use, I like a sky blue myself. After the paint dries. Apply a layer of Crystal-Clear over it, filling in the wind shield area. This gives a “Depth” to the otherwise two dimensional window.
It was some time ago--I purchased metallic black paint and was satisfied with the results. I don't think it was Floquil gunmetal. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I do like the suggestion of lead pencil--simplicity and no cleanup.
