We review current synthesis techniques for generating and improving birefringent filters. The relationship between wave-plate orientation and the resulting spectral output is shown to be that of a simple Fourier transform. By using this relationship and starting from the fan Sole configuration, we easily generated plate orientations providing lower sidelobe levels and improved finesse. We outline a method by which filters can be constructed to provide from 0 to 100% of the desired passband in a continuous fashion. Such a filter can be stacked to allow rapid control of any number of passbands and is shown, as an example in a novel design employing super-twisted nematic liquid crystal elements, to control a maximum of three color bands.