Put up newer crown molding and installed backer board with chair rail. The moldings also were painted the blue. It looks like a new addition and that was three years ago. Don't bother filling in the grooves as that's a needless waste of time. Just tell him you will do it or hire a good painter.
Nothing is impossible.
I am hoping the wood grain WILL show through the white or slightly off-white color I intend to use. I have never painted before, so please be specific. Before posting a message, please be sure you are in the appropriate category. No advertising is allowed on HGTV's message boards. Do not post messages that blink, scroll, or contain wingbats, colors, or large fonts.