Using light ropes to illuminate a shelf layout

[NevinW]

I accidently posted this in the general discussion forum but it is better off in this forum.  Sorry.   

My previous layout used flood lights attached to the ceiling.  The new layout is a 16" shelf with a shelf valence about 22 inches above it.  This month's LDSIG magazine has a double decker layout that uses these light ropes to light the lower shelf of the layout.  I have briefly looked at these at Lowes and the come it 25-50' lengths and consist of a long clear plastic tube with bulbs (LEDS?) inside about every foot or so.  They are being sold mostly for decoration.  It does look like it would be extremely easy to install and wire.  Has anyone had experience using these light ropes under a valence to light a layout and what did you think?  I would like something that is light weight, doesn't produce much heat but provides adequate illumination.  -  Nevin

[herons]

Hi: I have used 2 20' pieces on my hidden yard for lighting,and it works great....lots of light no heat.

 

Herons

[corksean12]

My shelf layout is in my bedroom so I used rope lights to illuminate underneath the layout, and it works great. Very easy to use, just drape it over some hooks and plug it in.Christmas tree lights and those icicle lights you sometimes see outside peoples houses are also good, with the added benefit of faintly resembling stars in a dark room. And you can change individual bulbs when they blow.

[TomDiehl]

Like Herons, I'm using rope lights to illuminate my hidden yard. I strung a 16 foot one through the framework for the upper level and it does make things easier to see under there. They are low power consumption, but also have a low light output. As far as lighting the main level of a layout from behind a valance, you're probably going to find the light output insufficient for satisfactory lighting of the layout.

[jeffrey-wimberly]

If the rope lights are close to the track they may work. As for using them for general layout lighting, don't waste your time.