1. Start with a pre-cut piece of plywood pine panel or a piece of MDF or birch plywood, measuring approximately 24" x 36".2. Cut a 1 x 12 piece of lumber to 18 inches in length.
3. Cut four 1 x 12 's; cut two pieces to six inch lengths and two pieces to 15 inch lengths. Nail them together using finish nails to form a "frame" that is 8" x 18" tall.
4. Attach the 1 x 2 frame to the panel—measuring 24" x 36"—with wire brads or finish nails exactly centered on the panel.
5. Use a spade bit and drill to create a one inch hole in the panel at the bottom left or right corner of the 1 x 2 frame. Wire the rope lights through this hole once the piece is finished (figure J).
6. Paint or stain the panel with a color of your choice or "Gentian".
7. Attach the plastic clips that came with the rope lights, to the outside perimeter of the 1 x 2 frame. Attach the rope lights to the frame, and then run and electric cord through the hole at the bottom left corner.
8. Cover the second panel (12" x 18") with fabric, paint or stain. Center the panel, and then attach it to the 1 x 2 frame using wire brads or finish nails. Note: We used a rag dipped in "Moss Rose" to achieve a "rustic" look for the panel.
9. Create trim for the second panel using 1" x 2" poplar. Paint the panel using "Framboise" (figure K), and then attach with brad nails or finish nails.
10. Hang the entire piece using heavy duty picture hanging hooks (50-75 pound) and wire.
11. Plug in the rope lights.
Tip: For a more dramatic effect, use a high wattage rope light.
![PHOTO](javascript:popup("http://img.diynetwork.com/DIY/2006/07/18/dasg104_1fj_e.jpg",350,450))
![PHOTO](javascript:popup("http://img.diynetwork.com/DIY/2006/07/18/dasg104_1fk_e.jpg",350,450))
