Well, FYI, I've tried dying the plastic with Rit black die, and it
certainly tinted it, but not nearly as dark as I need. This was after
what seems like extreme measures (left it in a hot dye bath for a couple
hours, and then turned the heat off and left it in there overnight).
I'm trying it again with triple the dye concentration (i.e., dumped in
two more packets of die), and had brought the water nearly to a boil
before putting the shell in, which I'm going to leave until at least
lunchtime. I also added a bit of vinegar to the mix, since one poster I
found on the web claimed that this makes the dye work better. So we'll
see, but after last night's experience, I'm not too optimistic.
Assuming this fails, the next step will be to try a translucent paint.
Tamiya's PS-38 Translucent Blue might work, though I'd prefer black.
One concern I have about this is the warning "Never use these paints on
plastic models" (they're made for polycarbonate). I doubt my shell is
polycarbonate... will the paint just not bond well, or what?
Another possibility is this "Nite Shades" translucent black paint made
for automotive use: <http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006HPLHO>
Any other suggestions?
Thanks,
- Joe
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