There are so many cake decorating books on the market – here’s a summary of 4 great tips that will help you bump your skill level up!
- Allow extra time when preparing
This is one that too many cake decorating books leave out – but the ones that do include it make a proper point of it.
When decorating a cake, it is likely for some occasion – one that you are involved in planning or running.
Often, when the time for the event gets close, there are other responsibilities that creep up – somebody calls and needs directions, something needs attending to at the last minute.
Leaving extra time means that you aren’t rushed with those items or the cake decorating. It means that you’re able to fully focus on what you’re doing instead of rushing through your cake while trying to fix other things!
- Do a practice run before trying something new
If you’re looking to release a new idea, or style, make sure you try it the first time around to see if there are any kinks in the process – even the best recipe books sometimes have a way of missing out an important step or not properly identifying what needs to be done.
Doing a practice run means that you’re able to prepare for this situation, and that you can adjust and accommodate if anything needs to be changed.
As well, you get the benefit of having an extra cake around the house – always a good situation!
- Focus on simplicity
It is easy to amass the whole cake with decorations and icing.
It is hard to have less features and decorations, and more of a focus on presentation.
Simplicity, properly presented, can be even more dramatic than a cake full of features.
Look for where you can take things away to highlight the items you want to, where you can remove instead of add to your piece.
This will enhance its meaning at presentation time, and make you a better artist in the long term.
- Always read the instructions
Reading the instructions carefully ensures that you’re able to put your cake together with the least hassle. It also means that you’re not worried about a surprise that pops up at the last minute.
Keep in mind that it’s easier to spend a little extra on ingredients than it is to have to make a return trip to the store because you’re short on something.
As well, it’s easier to do it right the first time than it is to have to put your first creation aside, and in a panic put a second one together.
I always find that reading a good collection of cake decorating books is a great way to learn the craft and grow as an artist. The more you learn and practice, the better the product you’re able to create.