My low-time VFR pilot into IMC story is very similar to that described by YPJT above. Descended a C172 into what I "knew" to be a thin cloud layer in order to stay VFR. Turned out to be many thousands of feet thick. Descended to a hastily calculated lowest safe, then climbed back out to VFR on top. Did a 180 and went home!
Can't say I ever put my survival down to good luck. At no time did I think I was going to die in the 15-20 min I spent in IMC.
I think good training, staying calm and a moderate degree of skill saved the day.
Never did again though!
