Has anyone ever tried to use transparency film as windows on structures? And if you did, did you find a way to give it a frosted look?
Even if you have not tried, I am open to any ideas!
Thanks!
Ken
I usually use clear styrene. Be wary of the really thin stuff, as it will curl.
Testor’s DULLCOAT spray will frost nicely.
I have used tinted glass auto type film for one of my Williams AMTRAK engines. I was not completely satisfied with the results, because it was not dark enough to hide the motor. I had used it previously on HO locomotives. fifedog’s idea of dullcoat would seem to be a good one.
I have used clear acrylic 1/8 inch thick plastic and sand blasted it to give the frosted look. Real easy takes about 2minutes.
laz57
For frosted windows I use a milk carton. Can’t beat the price. But you must use a sticky glue like the brown contact cement. Clear plastic can be frosted by using Clear Coat spray but it does not leave an even finish.
I’ve used ink jet transparency material to make images to put in windows, both structures and passenger cars. I think the passenger cars look better with real images than plastic people but to each his own. If you just want to cover the windows but not see inside you can use frosted acetate taped to the inside of the structure or drafting velum taped to the inside of the structure.
Years ago I used wax paper to make frosted windows.
GREAT ideas everyone! [tup] Many THANKS! Now how do each of these work when lighted from the inside? Looks like all can be tried with little to no expense. The only one that seems out of my immediate utilization is sandblasting the acrylic. I do not think I have any access to sandblasting service. Great idea though! I like it allot!
Ken
For frosted windows, use “Spray Mount” to glue white tissue paper (the kind that comes with a new dress shirt, for example) to clear acetate. The layer of spray glue gives the tissue paper additional opacity. Please this inside your structure with the clear acetate side facing out. Then hold this in place with Scotch Magic Tape - a full length piece going over the entire window openign from top to bottom, This provides additional opacity.
I have used wax paper and was disatisfied with the results. What you will find happens is that over time, most materials - including wax paper and acetate will “curl” and the window will not be flush. Over time, it looks bad. Using this method, and finishing it by using scotch magic tape to hold it firmly in place, the window material does not curl and it gives you a nice even look.
If cost isn’t an object. do the same thing with glass laboratory slides. You can glue these in place with plenty of overlap top and bottom and still use a layer of magic tape for opacity.
Lastly, use sripts of old manila folders to make window shades. You can hold these in place with magic tape as well. Place them at different heights to give your building some variety, as opposed to a bunch of white frosted windows.
Here are photos:
You can use a fine sandpaper to frost clear acetate or spray with clear matte spray.
There is a type of Scotch Tape that has a frosted look. Stick it on your favorite type of clear plastic material and tape or glue to the inside of the structure. I have also used the frosted tape idea by taping the clear window inserts of lighted cabooses. I use the clear plastic that many items come packaged in, just cut out the pieces that are flat. It looks real nice when lighted from the inside and it isn’t too “white” looking.
You might also want to try scotch tape that has a frosted look. I think it is called Scotch Magic Tape. I think I used it on a number to attain a “frosted look” on acetate used for windows…
SJ…I really like this idea. I wonder if you could use a hair dryer and make it “mold” to a certain shape, like the cab windows of an F unit. Then use a little glue to make it stick.
[#offtopic] I wonder if a milk carton cut correctly could be made into a tunnel liner. Paint it a dark color and put it just inside the tunnel portal.
Man…the “insight” that many of you have for using household items to help solve problems and more importantly save a few $$$ now and then is remarkable… Your experience and knowledge is very mush appreciated!
Thanks!