The project is no more difficult than a standard installation of crown molding—in fact, it’s easier because you don’t have to worry about fitting the molding tightly to the ceiling. Ripping the nailer strip is an additional step, but it’s an easy task if you have a table saw. No saw? Visit a local cabinet shop and you may be able to get the strips cut for a reasonable cost. The 1-1/2-inch thickness of standard 2x lumber produces the right nailing strip height for the 4-inch crown chosen for this project. If you downsize to a 3-inch crown, cut the strips from 5/4 stock, which measures about 1 inch thick. Paint the inside of the lighting trough to maximize light output from inexpensive rope lighting. You’ll find the painting is easy because you apply it before installing the components. Wire the circuit with a separate switch for the trough outlet so you can control it independently of the existing overhead light. That gives you flexibility in setting the lighting level and mood. You can either expand an existing single box to a double or purchase a double switch that fits into a single box. Rope lights that run off a low-voltage transformer bring an additional consideration: the transformer may be too bulky to fit into the trough. If there isn’t room in the trough for the transformer, find a place for it in an adjoining room or basement. If you aren’t confident in your electrical DIY skills, hire an electrician to install the outlet.
