Do It Yourself: Hidden Lighting

Create a Panel

• 1

  Determine where you want to place your hidden lighting.

• 2

  Locate nearest electrical outlets.

• 3

  Locate wall studs using a stud finder. Mark the studs with an X.

• 4

  Measure the length and height of the lighting area, making sure both ends of the width align with the far end of a wall stud. Use a level when measuring to ensure the finished project is straight. Write down the measurement. Mark the area using a straight edge.

• 5

  Measure and cut 2 x 4s to fit the marked area. Screw the cut 2 x 4s along wall markings at each stud to create a frame. The outer sides of the lumber should align with the wall markings.

• 6

  Run the rope light along the entire outside perimeter of the frame. Staple the rope light onto the frame as you go. Add more rope lights to the initial strand if necessary to cover the perimeter.

• 7

  Measure and cut plywood or drywall to extend 3 inches beyond each edge of the frame. Sand the edges smooth. Screw plywood or drywall to the frame at 6-inch intervals.

• 8

  Paint, stain or cover the finished panel with fabric as desired.

• 9

  Plug rope light into electrical outlet. Add an extension cord if the distance is too great to accommodate the original cord.

Ambient Lighting

• 10

  Run a strand of rope lighting under the perimeter of your bed to create a romantic glow. Affix lights to a solid frame or carpeting with staples, adhere to solid flooring with packaging tape or stretch it tightly between bed-frame legs and attach with zip-ties. Attach rope lights to the wall behind your headboard with picture hooks.

• 11

  Staple rope lights underneath upper and lower kitchen cabinets for subdued yet functional lighting.

• 12

  Attach rope lights to the underside of your kitchen island, breakfast bar, dining room table or coffee and end tables to enhance the ambiance of your common areas.

• 13

  Hang rope lighting underneath the edges of your deck or beneath the stairs with hooks or staples for a charming outdoor effect.