Cake! magazine by Australian Cake Decorating Network February 2017 | Page 19

Cont. step 6:
Redefine outlines with contrasting colours or black and white edible paint Once your cake is stacked, stand back and see what is missing. Look at using the design in a reduced form on another tier to tie in the design. You can use part of your initial design and / or template to do this if you wish.
My Tips for Painting Cakes
• Rolkem dusts can be used for all purposes. Mix them with a little Quick Dry Essence or rose spirit( or even vodka). I prefer to use Quick Dry Essence. I find that Vodka can damage the colours’ integrity, and rose spirit dries too quickly for me to blend colours effectively.
• For strong lines and solid colors, use Edible Art Paints. They are easy to use and dry super fast. Americolor Gels may also be used straight from the bottle or slightly diluted, again with Quick Dry Essence, Rose Spirit or Vodka. Note though that if you use the gels in their original form that they may dry with a very glossy finish and in some cases not dry completely, leaving transfer marks and smudges. Also note that when painting onto dark coloured fondant( especially if airbrushed) with gels that lighter colours may dissolve a little or fade( e. g. white may also become blue on black fondant). To get an intense colour, multiple coats will be required.
• Layer colours to show shading, texture and dimension. Vary your brush angle and overlay colours for interesting effects.
• Remove mistakes carefully with vodka or rose spirit, being careful not to damage the design too much or leave unwanted smudges on your cake. If removing a dark colour from light fondant, gently rub over the error with a paintbrush, dabbing with paper towel or a dry brush to remove excess fluid and avoid running.
• Make sure you use good quality brushes – the last thing you want is hairs all over your cake! Use size 0 and 00.
• Baking paper rolls are amazing for transfers for the sides of cakes. They are just the right height and have a nice curve in them already!

• Keep your designs and inspiration close, they will continue to help your creativity and also provide great reference. f facebook. com / redkitchengirls

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