Topgun,

Simply outstanding, guy. That is, without doubt, the prettiest Raptor canopy I've ever seen.

Scott,

No. I considered doing it from the inside, but sometimes that seam where you join the two halves needs considerable work. So I find it gives better results to get that seam cleaned up and finished before painting.

My man does his clear-coating in a proper paint booth, but I do all of my work in the back yard with a Badger airbrush and can of Propel. This automotive lacquer (I think it is PPG; it was given to me) dries instantly, so I don't worry about attracting dust, bugs, etc.

If I ever build another house, it will have a "dirty room", with central heat and air, for painting, sanding, etc.

Below is an interesting comparison; I hope the digital photo can show the difference between the canopy on the right, which was done with automotive lacquer and clear coat, and the canopy on the left, which was done with Top Flite LusterCote from the spray can (clear too). There simply is a world of difference.

The spray can hobby paint gave okay results; I'm not ashamed of it. But it certainly won't turn any heads.

That airbrush is a BIG pain to set-up, clean, etc. But the end result is worth the effort. It's only drawback is volume; it really doesn't put out enough paint for a good-sized project. If anyone is thinking of getting into this seriously, a quality "detail" gun should be your first purchase. This is bigger than an airbrush, but smaller than your standard full-size spray rig.

Steve