Author: Shanon
Subject: Re: kelly green paste
Date: Sun Mar 15 11:40:26 1998
Message:
One hint... Let your icing sit and the longer
(days) it sits the deeper and more intense the color will be. Just check
whether your icing needs to be refriderated or not. The butter cream I
use doesn't need to be refr. and it is pretty dark
in a few days. Sometimes red and navy take a week. Try this.
Author: Dolores
Subject: Re: Re: kelly green paste
Date: Sun Mar 15 12:58:48 1998
Message:
If you must leave your red icing set for a
week, you are using the wrong kind. Baker's Preferred gel red is bright
red instantly. In fact, the worst problems I have with it is that my icing
gets TOO red LOL. Wilton makes a 'Christmas' red
that simply is a very weak color...containing too little of the red pigment.
A shame, but it is in all their kits of colors
that are so handy for the beginner.
Author: Dolores
Subject: Re: kelly green paste
Date: Sun Mar 15 10:28:41 1998
Message:
We do carry Kelly Green food coloring.
This is a kind of deep color with a bit of
yellow in it.
Author: vikki
Subject: kelly green paste
Date: Sun Mar 15 12:48:06 1998
Message:
Thanks....I will order some..I have to have
this by Wednesday...So i'll let it set a little longer.
Feels great to have experience to turn to!
Vikki
Author: vicki
Subject: beginners luck
Date: Sun Mar 15 09:16:11 1998
Message:
I need do's and don'ts on getting started
with cake decorating becoming a full time adventure. Like I have
stated before I am very new to it, but would
like to jump into with both feet. Any and all suggestions will be
greatly appreciated. Thanks,
vicki
Author: Dolores
Subject: Re: beginners luck
Date: Sun Mar 15 10:30:45 1998
Message:
We have covered this subject pretty thoroughly
a few pages back.
But, go slow, take special classes after your
initial full course and learn all you can. The web is a great new
resource!
Author: vicki
Subject: beginners luck
Date: Sun Mar 15 12:17:12 1998
Message:
I guess maybe I am looking for encouragment
also. My husband tells me, I must eat, drink, and sleep cake
decorating if I want to really get into this
full time. ( I dreamed of decorating cakes all night, last night.) I really
enjoy it, and love the art of it. I am a Home Health Aide, and just am
feeling the woes in the back these days and would love to do something,
I love to do. Thanks for your help.
vicki
Author: Jennifer
Subject: Trademarking your name
Date: Sat Mar 14 20:09:59 1998
Message:
Have any of you bothered to get a trademark
for your business name? If so, what is involved and how much did it
cost? Thanks!
Author: lynne
Subject: Re: Trademarking your name
Date: Sat Mar 14 21:12:09 1998
Message:
if you look it up on the internet it there.
hubby did and as far as he could tell all you have to do is use it. if
you go to our web pg you will see we have the 'tm' next to
our name. that is all it takes, from what he could tell. he did a
search on 'trademark' and that's where the info comes from.
lynne
Author: Jennifer
Subject: trademarks
Date: Sat Mar 14 22:48:07 1998
Message:
Lynne,
What I found confirms what I originally thought.
That is, simply using a trademark does not provide any protection
against others using the same, or very similar, trademark. In order to
own a trademark, and prevent others from using it, you have
to register it with the federal Patent and Trademark Office. Otherwise,
someone else can use the same name. If you are just using the
name, others in your area probably won't use it, but someone in another
part of the country could register the same name. Then, even
though you may have thought of it first, they will have all
legal rights to it because they REGISTERED it first, and could force you
to stop using it. I was just wondering how much it costs to register,
and how complicated the process is.
Author: RobinG
Subject: Trademarking
Date: Sun Mar 15 00:25:25 1998
Message:
Hi Jennifer: Here in NJ you have to go to
the County your business will be located in. They make you go through
these huge books, checking to be sure that nobody else has the same name
you want. It's been a long time for me but the cost was minimal
to insure no duplications in the same County. I think if you wanted to
spend more, you could insure the name statewide. Further than that,
I don't know.
I called the City Clerk in my town, &
she was more than happy to tell me where to go to register. Maybe it is
the same in your area. Good Luck!!! .....RobinG
Author: Marie
Subject: Re: Trademarking
Date: Sun Mar 15 11:02:08 1998
Message:
Here in Missouri, one registers a "Ficticious
Name" with the Secretary of State office, but I don't recall the cost.
I don't know if this qualifies as a trademark - I was thinking
trademark was a federal thing, but I don't know.
Author: ELLEN
Subject: Filled Cakes
Date: Sat Mar 14 13:59:17 1998
Message:
Any suggestions to keep the top layer from
sliding off the bottom layer of a filled cake when slicing it?
Author: Jennifer
Subject: sliding layers
Date: Sat Mar 14 15:01:58 1998
Message:
I don't usually have this problem. The only
time this happened to me I used a filling that was too runny. I would try
using less filling and/or making it thicker in consistency.
Author: Ellen
Subject: Re: sliding layers
Date: Sat Mar 14 17:35:30 1998
Message:
I am using commercial filling, pre-packaged.
Is there something I should be doing to this before putting it on
the cake? The cake I was serving was a sheet cake that I had split and
filled. The "outside" was fine, it was just the middle of the cake that
I had trouble with. Thanks for your help
Author: Jennifer
Subject: sliding layers
Date: Sat Mar 14 17:56:53 1998
Message:
I haven't used the commercial fillings that
come in those tube-shaped bags; I usually make my own. I would try
using a little less. I've also heard of putting some icing in the very
center to "glue" the inside as well as the outside.
Author: Glenda
Subject: Sliding layers
Date: Sat Mar 14 16:50:13 1998
Message:
Are you using an icing dam around the outside
edge of your layers? Usually this is sufficient to "glue" the
layers together as well as holding in the filling.
Author: Ellen
Subject: Re: Sliding layers
Date: Sat Mar 14 17:32:50 1998
Message:
yes, I did use an icing dam. I only had trouble
in the center of the cake. Any suggestions?
Author: Kathy M.
Subject: sliding layers
Date: Sat Mar 14 22:32:33 1998
Message:
Ellen, For fillings
I either use pie fillings, perserves are the fillings in the tubes. I add
these to buttercream icing and never have the problem with the layers
sliding and it's also delicious! Hope this helps you.
Kathy M.
Author: Ellen
Subject: Re: sliding layers
Date: Sun Mar 15 12:39:50 1998
Message:
Do you MIX the buttecream and the filling
together? Or do you just use the buttercream to
ice the cake? Thanks so much for your help.
Author: Kathy M.
Subject: sliding layers
Date: Sun Mar 15 12:53:52 1998
Message:
I mix the buttercream icing and filling together
after
I make a dam of buttercream. Just mix about
half and half, then spoon onto your cake. Also sometimes I use a
recipe Delores posted, using Sweetened Condensed Milk and a stick of butter,
beat a long time, then add your filling to the mixture, it's
also delicious, but rich. Kathy M.
Author: Dawn
Subject: Sliding layers
Date: Sun Mar 15 12:59:49 1998
Message:
I read all the responses to your question
with great interest, as I also had a "bad" experience with the commercial
fruit filling that comes in long tube. I had what felt like a "nightmare
experience" with what started out to be a 4 tiered wedding
cake, but by the time I arrived at the resort, about 2 hours away, to set
it up, I had only three good tiers remaining. Because of the
filling the next to largest tier had slid apart and into the side of the
box. I had used the dam of icing around the edge of each layer.
Perhaps I used more filling than I should have, but my solution
was simple...never again. That was a couple years ago and unless I read
something to convince me otherwise I'm sticking to my solution.
Yes, it tastes pretty good, but to me it's just not worth the risk.
Author: Vicki
Subject: Advice on doing eyes and noses
Date: Sat Mar 14 13:10:04 1998
Message:
I just finished doing my first cake, an Easter
Bunny, and I could definitely use some hints on how to do eyes and
noses!!! The instructions said to use the "fill-in" method, then smooth
it with your finger dipped in corn starch--didn't work for
me. I'm trying to get an ok looking bunny by April :-)
If you'd like to take a quick look at my cake,
it's at: http://www.mnsinc.com/bvcosby/bcake.jpg
Thanks in advance! and great board!!
Vicki
Author: Marie
Subject: eyes and noses
Date: Sat Mar 14 13:25:58 1998
Message:
Hi Vicki,
You did a good job on your first cake! I like
to use M&M's regular and the tiny baking ones for eyes on "critters."
Look in the candy dept at the store and surely, you'll get lots of ideas!
Good luck! Marie
Author: Ellen
Subject: BUNNY CAKE
Date: Sat Mar 14 13:50:56 1998
Message:
VERY CUTE!! I USE THE #5 OR #6 TIP TO FILL
IN AND THEN LIGHTLY PAT TO FILL IN THE AREA.
KEEP PRACTICING....YOU'RE GONNA BE GREAT
Author: Shanon
Subject: Re: Advice on doing eyes and noses
Date: Sat Mar 14 14:33:14 1998
Message:
GREAT JOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
He is very cute. Practice is what works with
the cornstartch method. I use it a lot. Make sure that you are letting
the icing form a crust slightly before you try to smooth it. This may help
you. I did a cobble stone walk way with a tip 10 balls and
then "squished" them down This worked great! Keep going... you are doing
wonderful! (And remember, your cake is always the
best one in the house! :) )
Author: Vicki
Subject: I didn't let it slightly crust!
Date: Sat Mar 14 14:45:41 1998
Message:
Aha! I must have skipped over that part in
the instructions!! Thanks! :-)
Vicki
Author: lynne
Subject: Re: I didn't let it slightly crust!
Date: Sat Mar 14 19:29:09 1998
Message:
hi vickie;
welcome to our wonderful world!!!
haven't had a chance to ck out the pic, but
i will.
one note on patting down icing: depending
on the recipe you are using you can pat down anything after letting the
icing set up about 10-30 minutes *without* using cornstarch. if you do
use it keep it light so you don't have lots of white powder
maring your creation. lynne
Author: valerie
Subject: bunny cake
Date: Sat Mar 14 19:26:15 1998
Message:
Vicki,
CUTE CAKE!!! You're on your way. I agree about
the slightly crusting. I've done alot of cakes using that
method.
Another thing I do when using a character
pan. Melt and tint some candy melts. Pour them into the pan in the
areas you want. (Eyes, Nose, etc.) Place the pan in the fridge for a few
minutes, then pop out the formed candy melts. (They will be
shiny when hard and look "real" for eyes, etc.) I then put a dab of icing
on and place them into position on the cake. Proceed to finish
the actual icing of fur, etc. It works great. I even use it for the faces
or arms, etc. of the "people" pans. Saves time having to pat
down so much icing and my hands just can't take doing so many stars
anymore. Have fun. You have a great future.
Valerie
Author: Maurice Guilfoil
Subject: eyes and noses
Date: Sat Mar 14 23:00:54 1998
Message:
Valerie,
What a creative idea for doing eyes and other
parts of a character cake by using candy melts! I am anxious to try
your idea when I decorate my next character cake. Thanks!
Maurice
Author: Dolores
Subject: Re: Advice on doing eyes and noses
Date: Sun Mar 15 08:09:48 1998
Message:
I like the idea with the candy melts! That
is a fast way.
The way I do it is to dab a tiny bit of water
on my finger and pat the icing gently to smooth. But you must let it dry
before applying the outline or colors blot together.
Author: Vicki
Subject: Thank You all!
Date: Sun Mar 15 10:10:43 1998
Message:
Thank you all so much for all your advice
and suggestions! I can't wait to try them!! I've noticed there are a few
other "Vicki" or "vicki", so I'll just take VickiVA from now one--technically
it doesn't matter, but it's nice to know who is who.
Thanks again!! VickiVA
Author: Margaret
Subject: rentals?
Date: Sat Mar 14 12:11:02 1998
Message:
I've seen several articles about whether is
was legal to sell licensed cakes. (Disney, Looney Tunes etc) I have seen
several shops that rent the character pans. Is this legal? Could I buy
a character pan and rent the pan for a customer to make their
own cake? The ones I saw were rented for $3-5 for 24 hours.
Author: lynne
Subject: Re: rentals?
Date: Sat Mar 14 19:21:13 1998
Message:
hi margaret; what is illeagle is *selling
the finished cake*.
you can rent the pans for customer to make
her own cake. there prolly are health dept. requirements on that but
i'm not sure what. like you'd prolly have to disinfect the pan before renting
again (soak in bleach water).
it is *not* illeagle to make liscened cakes:)
it is to *sell* them therefore susyhomemaker can make as many as she
wants. *you* can make (&decorate) them too, just don't sell. if you
give it away, that's ok. and no....you cannot have
them pay you for the ingredients....no amount of money can change hands.
hope this helps all understand the difference
on this *hot* topic. lynne
Author: Shanon
Subject: What do you call yourself?
Date: Fri Mar 13 18:40:17 1998
Message:
I would just like to know what other peoples
business cards say, and what you advertise yourself as...Names of
businesses (ie Cakes by so and so) Or cute phrases you add. Thanks for
sharing! :)
Author: Vikki
Subject: Re: What do you call yourself?
Date: Sun Mar 15 12:44:20 1998
Message:
Piece 'O Cake
Author: Sly
Subject: RE: name & business cards
Date: Sun Mar 15 09:29:18 1998
Message:
My cards were also done using Microsoft Publisher
(as a few others mentioned). Mine are done "portrait" style
instead of the usual "landscape" style. There is a pale lavender tiered
cake superimposed on the background, and Sly Creations in a
large font over the image. In smaller print I have "whimsical cakes for
all occasions" and my personal info and email address. (I suppose
I should reprint some now that I have a website started, but I'll
probably wait until I've gone through the ones I've already made.)
You can visit my website at
http://www.wizard.net/~casanova/Sly/
I do have several photos up, but I just need
to get some spare time to scan more in.
Author: Dolores
Subject: Re: What do you call yourself?
Date: Sun Mar 15 08:18:00 1998
Message:
Mine is 'Sugarcraft'- of course Actually Sugarcraft,
Inc. Since we are incorporated, our 'name' is registered with
the atate of Ohio and this makes it illegal for any other shop to use the
same name.
I wonder whether you should add your home
address to a business card? The consensus around here is that it can
be dangerous.
Logos: Be sure the logo doesn't take up too
much space. It is sometimes difficult to incorporate it into an ad if it
is spread out.
Author: Glenda
Subject: what do you call yourself
Date: Sat Mar 14 17:36:50 1998
Message:
Hi, The name of my
business is Aunt Glenda's Cakes, and my business card is a
photo of a bride and groom with the wedding cake I made them,and
written across the bottom
in script is Aunt Glenda's Cakes, my address
and phone number. I started decorating cakes when one of my
nieces asked me to make her wedding cake. I was scared to death
but it turned out pretty well. I am having the time of my life
(came out of retirement to do this). I have learned so much
from the generosity of other sharing decorators, I hope
I can return the favor by helping someone else.
Author: Marie
Subject: Re: What do you call yourself?
Date: Sat Mar 14 13:33:45 1998
Message:
Hi Shanon,
I have Cakes by Marie in fancy script over
my logo - a sort of stylized cake with roses and leaves, then my name,
Cake Artist, then address and phone number. The same thing is on my brochures.
When my web page is up (which I hope is soon) it will be on
that too. Marie
Author: Amy
Subject: web page
Date: Sat Mar 14 15:11:33 1998
Message:
Marie, I hope you'll give us your address
when you get it. Amy
Author: lynne
Subject: web page
Date: Sat Mar 14 18:57:41 1998
Message:
while you are waiting for marie to get hers
up check out mine: www.vbai.com/cakegal/ lynne
Author: Marie
Subject: Re: web page
Date: Sun Mar 15 11:06:14 1998
Message:
Lynne,
I tried to go to your page, but I get a thing
that says URL not on this server or something like that. :-(
Marie
Author: Shannon
Subject: Re: What do you call yourself?
Date: Sat Mar 14 12:42:41 1998
Message:
Mine is 'Tiers of Joy'. On my business cards
I have a wedding cake on the left side of the card then Tiers of Joy
written at the top over to the right. I have 'Custom designed cakes for
all occasions - weddings, birthdays, showers, anniversaries,
and more' written under that. Then my name and number. I designed it myself
with a program called Microsoft Publisher. You can design
almost anything you need for your business with this
program. I've made flyers, price lists, contracts, calenders, and lots
of other stuff. It has alot of VERY nice clip art in several
different styles. Finished through March 8th, 1998
Author: Ruth
Subject: Re: What do you call yourself?
Date: Sat Mar 14 09:22:09 1998
Message:
Mine Says Sweet Delights
Special Cakes for Special Occasions
Then my name, address, phone and at the bottom,
Wilton Cake Decoration Instructor. I have pictures of flowers
& butterflies
Author: Ellen
Subject: What do you call yourself
Date: Sat Mar 14 00:30:27 1998
Message:
Sugar & Spice, and other things nice
Author: Stephanie
Subject: Cake names
Date: Fri Mar 13 23:27:56 1998
Message:
Hi, mine is similar to Amy's except mine is
"Have Your Cake And Eat It Too"
it has my address, phone and fax number
and i think the next cards I have made will have my e-mail address.
I also have my logo on all my stickers.
Author: Shanon
Subject: logo
Date: Sat Mar 14 11:13:03 1998
Message:
What does your logo look like? Thanks
Author: isabel
Subject: logo design ideas
Date: Sun Mar 15 02:37:05 1998
Message:
AS I've read you're talking about business
cards and logos.Can you give me any ideas for that or if you know the
webpage which includes logo's samples. Thank you
Author: Amy
Subject: business cards
Date: Fri Mar 13 19:43:22 1998
Message:
Shanon,
This is what my business cards look like:
On the left is a pillered cake with a pink circle around it. Next to it
is Amy's Cakes in Harrington script, and pink with a black
shadow. Then in small letters below that is "Life's too short,
eat dessert first". At the bottom left, it says Cakes and candies for all
occasions. And to the right is my Phone number and e-mail address.
When I get my web site, my web address will be under that. There is a pink
leaf border, but I recently found a cake slice border in Publisher. My
cake box labels and receipts have the same general set-up.
Hope this helps, Amy
Author: Brenda
Subject: Food Allergies
Date: Fri Mar 13 14:59:52 1998
Message:
Hello All,
Thanks so much for all the great info!! I've
learned a lot from all of you professionals.
I've seen several messages here and in books,
etc., about allergies to things like coconut and nuts. Another thing
to think about is liquor. I use brandy in a lot of my chocolate icings,
but I always make sure everybody knows its in there. I learned
this tip from my sister who goes to A.A. I'm not a teetotaler, so I had
not thought of it until she discussed it with me. Anyway, just
though I'd pass that one along.
Keep up all the good work. Y'all are wonderful!!
Brenda
Author: lynne
Subject: Re: Food Allergies
Date: Fri Mar 13 21:34:31 1998
Message:
thanks for reminding us. recently i did a
bridal faire. one guy passed on tasting my cake when he found out it had
liquore in it. later he came back and did taste one that was alchol free.
(i had 2 different kinds when he returned and he chose the one w/o.)
i don't know why he didn't want any w/liquor,
i didn't ask. that's his business. a couple of wks latet they came into
the shop and booked my to do their wedding cake in october.
lynne
Author: MaraTLee
Subject: Re: Alcohol in cakes
Date: Sat Mar 14 07:17:21 1998
Message:
Dear Breanda:
I use a lot of liquors in my cakes and icings......
About a year ago, maybe more, the treasurer
of the tri-state AA aproached me to do the cakes for their meetings.
When I gave him a sample to take back to the board of directors meeting
, I did tell him that I used extracts in my icing that where
alcohol based, like vanilla, lemon, and such. His response was this---as
long as I didn't go overboard and poured a whole bottle in the extracts
where in such minute quantities that if they were getting drunk
on the cake, they SHOULD be drinking.~~~ At the time I though that was
a cruel and terrible thing to say~~~ But what he was trying
to point out to me is that, 1. the cakes I made where good the way they
were and 2. If you have a problem, it's up to you to say, what
you can and can't eat. It wasn't my responsibility to adapt my
product to ALL of the people that walked in the door. As long as I did
the responsible thing and made everyone aware of what I was
using, it was up to the individual to maintain control.
I don't know if I'm explaining myself correctly
and I hope that I don't offend anyone but after I overcame my
anger at this man, I realized--I have a quality product----but it's not
for everyone, also, I'm in this business to make money, that
also limits me in the amount of different products that I can carry. I
try to accomodate as many people as I can but now, if I can't
I don't loose as much sleep over it.(but believe me I am not a selfish
and callous person!) I hope this helps.
Author: Brenda
Subject: Alcohol in Cakes
Date: Sat Mar 14 15:46:09 1998
Message:
Thanks for responses. As MaraT says, I've
met my obligation by telling them what's in the cake. The rest is up to
them. The comment about getting drunk on the cake is cute!! and he was
right!!!
Thanks for all the help you professionals
give us novices!! This is one of my favorite places
to visit. Brenda
Author: linda
Subject: ICES
Date: Fri Mar 13 13:01:13 1998
Message:
For those that have attended a convention,
please fill me in as to what actually takes place. I am really considering
attending this year, but I don't have the slightest idea as to what to
expect and what I should be prepared to take, etc. Any info
is greatly appreciated.
Author: valerie
Subject: ICES-ditto that Linda
Date: Fri Mar 13 13:07:37 1998
Message:
I would like to know what expenses to expect.
This is the closest a convention has been to me that I was aware
of. Would love to possibly go. Thanks,
Valerie
Author: Nancy Morgan
Subject: ICES Convention
Date: Fri Mar 13 13:32:07 1998
Message:
I went to my 1st convention last year. It
was wonderful. There are a lot of cakes on display - so take your
camera.
There is a registration fee. And of course,
there is the expense for room and food.
Demonstrations are free and they are on-going
throughout the weekend. The ICES Newsletter will be list the
schedule as it is finalized. There are many to choose from. Be selective.
You can add more while you are there.
There will be a multitude of vendors - this
is where you will need your money. You can spend a little or a lot if you
choose. Of course, you'll just hear your name being called to spend, spend,
spend!!
You will need to get your reservation in early
for the demonstrations. First come first served.
There is a first timers orientation held on
the weekend to help you understand what goes on.
Enjoy!!
Author: Amy
Subject: I.C.E.S. registration
Date: Fri Mar 13 14:15:05 1998
Message:
I just joined I.C.E.S. and want to register
early. There wasn't a form with my letter stating that I'm now an official
member. Will it come with my first newsletter?
Author: Carolyn
Subject: ICES Registration
Date: Fri Mar 13 15:29:38 1998
Message:
No, it won't come with your first newsletter.
You need to write to: Gene and Linda John, 2591 Bloom Road,
White Bear Lake, Minnesota 55110-5713 or call
612-429-1221 or fax 612-653-8917.
If you register before April 1, you will be
in on the $250 cash drawing they are giving away to promote early
registrations.
If you love cakes, you'll love ICES. I've
gone all but one of the conventions since 1977 - it goes on my calendar
every year for the next convention.
If you need to find a roommate, you can do
that by contacting the newsletter editor - Winbeckler@AOL.Com and
she will put a notice in a newsletter coming up.
You won't regret coming - usually about 1000
cakes on display and it's like a big family reunion. Be sure to get in
on the demos and all the fun you can.
Author: Nannette
Subject: Convention--what to bring
Date: Fri Mar 13 21:33:43 1998
Message:
I can't believe no one else told you this
yet--BRING A CAKE!! I went to my first convention 3 years ago, and
was *terrified* at the thought of bringing a cake to share, because of
all the great pictures in the ICES newsletter.
But, my ICES state rep talked me into it,
and I actually brought 2. Were they the best there? Not even close. But
the whole idea is to share and get ideas, and the best way to do it is
to bring a cake to share. If you're cake gets messed
up in transit, they have a cake hospital with some limited supplies to
help you fix whatever broke (I spent two hours at the one in
Orlando!).
Also, if you're traveling alone and you fly,
you can meet other people going to the convention by looking around
and seeing who else is carrying a cake box on board!! I've made a number
of friends this way!
I look forward to seeing your cake in Minneapolis!
Author: Carolyn
Subject: What to bring??
Date: Fri Mar 13 23:51:05 1998
Message:
You're absolutely right Nannette!! Without
cakes, there would be no convention!! That's an important part of it!
If you have never been, try to find someone
in your state that you can room with and share expenses. The ones
from our state usually team up with at least one other person, but sometimes
as many as 4 in a room with 2 double beds. You're usually not
in your room that much anyway so you might as well save what you can there.
It also helps to have someone to kinda be with or you can go
your separate ways and meet later.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes!! Lots
of walking! Clothes range daily from shorts, jeans, dresses and
business attire such as pant suits, etc. For the banquet on Saturday night,
a nice dress or pant suit is fine. Some will wear tuxes and long
formal type dresses, but this is not a must.
Also a lot of pin-on trading goes on between conventioneers.
This is also not a must, but is a fun thing and an ice breaker
to introduce yourself to someone. You might check with your state capitol's
tourism department - sometimes they have little state
shaped pins you can get for free or for a nominal charge and these are
fun things to take and trade or you can hand make little pin-on
things if you are that crafty. Probably 200 would be a good
number of those to have.
When you get your registration packet at convention,
read everything in it so you will know what is going on each
day and where you will want to be. There is a small separate booklet that
is handy to carry in your purse that lists the schedule of
events and where things are.
It's a great experience and once you go, you
will be hooked. You will meet people from all over the world -
England, Japan, South America, Canada, South
Africa and so many more places and meet some great cake
decorating teachers.
Most of all - take your SMILE and have lot
of fun and look me up!! I'll tell you all about convention in Missouri
in '99!!
Author: Shanon
Subject: Need a buddy, my 1st too
Date: Sat Mar 14 11:19:58 1998
Message:
I am from Washington state and my first question
when I started participating on this bored a few monthes ago
was what to do at an ICES convention. This is the first time I get to go
( I have relatives in St. Paul and was going to be there at
this time anyways.) I am very nervous about meeting people. I am going
alone (except I am forcing my husband to go to the banquet
:) I am sure we will be easy to spot as we are a military family and my
husband will be the handsome man in his dress uniform. :))
So, I guess I want a buddy and want to be able to spot all you
guys and say "Hey, I'm the Shanon with one n on Delores' BB" nice to meet
you :) Linda if you decide to go, we can meet up and at least figure
things out together.
Author: Dolores
Subject: Re: ICES
Date: Sun Mar 15 08:30:11 1998
Message:
I'm going too!!!!
One thing about bringing a cake. This makes
you feel more like you are a part of things in every way. There is no
judging...just share your ideas freely. I'll be doing a wedding cake demo
there. Its on Thursday.
Thursday evening we are having a computer
chat too!!!! Earlene Moore and I will be hosting it. Please come and
share.
I think we should plan now to have some kind
of 'badge' to let our friends know who we are too??? If on AOL,
we have one that Earlene designed last year. I will be posting that again
very soon. But what could the rest of wear? Or would it be
okay if we ALL wear the same one? I think so. What do you think? Since
AOL members AND the rest of us are all getting together here,
why not? Dolores
Author: Marie
Subject: Re: Re: ICES
Date: Sun Mar 15 11:53:42 1998
Message:
I'd like to wear a badge too. It could be as simple
as wearing a certain colored ribbon pinned on one's shoulder.
Along with the other suggestions, I think it's a
good idea to take a backpack or large bag to carry all the "goodies"
you'll acquire throughout the convention. Business cards and samples of
your brochures are nice to trade with others along with your
souvenirs. A notepad and pens/pencils are a must and take LOTS of film
and extra batteries for the camera! I always take a supply of my
favorite diet pop and snacks. Drinks and food are expensive...and
being diabetic, it's simpler for me to carry my own stuff, rather than
rely on being able to find something I can have. Be sure to
leave room in your luggage or take an extra empty suitcase to haul your
loot home in. Once, I UPS'ed my stuff home to myself because
I had so much. You'll have so much fun. I think the first convention
one attends is always the most memorable! Louisville was my first and I
walked around with eyes big as quarters and tongue hanging
out! :-) Marie
Author: Pat Respers
Subject: Basket Weave
Date: Fri Mar 13 09:46:30 1998
Message:
I Need some assistance please all you sugar
art wizards out there ... I have to do a wedding cake which has
basket weave design and have done many before however this problen is the
cake is covered on top as well as sides and all tiers sit seperately
on stands .. My problem is for the tops I do not know where to start weaving
to make it come out correctly. I hsve been practicing on cake
dummies but no luck..please if anyone has done this cake or has any
suggestions, they would be greatly appreciated.
Author: Carolyn
Subject: Basketweave
Date: Fri Mar 13 11:36:48 1998
Message:
Pat, scroll down about 3 or 4 or so articles
and you will see where I answered Maurice's question on the same
thing. I start over to the left side of the cake top and weave it just
like the sides. I have done this cake many times.
I do, however, use about a number 18 or 20
to do all the weaving - no straight tips or not flat basketweave tips.
The star tip gives it so much more dimension and this is what it looks
like on the picture to me of the cake you are describing
- the Van Horn - Hayward cake. I do the top of the cake first and then
the sides.
Author: Julie
Subject: airbrush
Date: Fri Mar 13 09:30:07 1998
Message:
Well my husband found my notes on airbrushes
and he supprised me with one yesturday (airmaster by
kopykake). It seems really nice but the instructions
that came with it are only 1 page long - mostly about how to
take it apart.
I need help!! I've never used one before -
does anyone know of a good book in this regard? Perferably with a lot
of pictures!!! Some one mentioned to me that there is a "airbrush lady"
out there - but I can't remember her name!
I thought this was discussed before, but I
scrolled back pretty far and could not find it.
Thanks in advance for your help,
Julie
Author: lynne
Subject: Re: airbrush
Date: Fri Mar 13 11:44:59 1998
Message:
marie gives good advise :)
the water you use to clean the brush needs
to be *hot*. cold water will set your color.
be sure to protect the needle at all times.
don't bang it on the side of the bowl when cleaning or drop the whole
brush.
the person to whom you refered is frances
kuyper in pasadena, ca. contact her ...she is the most sharing person
ever! she is in her 80's now, still going strong except for having had
a heart attack last december.
have fun practicing and perfecting your skills!
lynne
Author: Marie
Subject: airbrush
Date: Fri Mar 13 10:38:22 1998
Message:
Hi Julie!
You'll LOVE your Airmaster. What a great hubby!
I've used one for several years and it has been very reliable.
Go to Dolores' home page and click on airbrush.
Scroll down and there are several airbrush books listed.
Until you get your book(s), you might get
some color books and practice coloring them with your airbrush. Also,
the paper towels that have outlined pictures are a good practice medium
for airbrushing. You can experiment with the pressure control
knob and get the feel of it without messing up a cake. :-) Hint: to fill
in an area without going over the lines, hold the airbrush in a vertical
position. The closer you hold it to the surface, the finer the line you
can achieve. As with everything, practice makes perfect. Don't be afraid
to play with it - kind of like getting a new pen and doing
fancy stuff with it - just let go and experiment.
Be sure to rinse the airbrush with water after
each color use (dump out leftover color and fill cup with warm water
and spray it all out until the water is clear)and wipe any water left off
carefully without touching the end of the needle. Sometimes
water will collect on the tip and drip off at the most inopportune time
and spoil your project. If you do that faithfully, you won't
have to take it apart very often to clean. If it starts splattering, then
it's probably time for a thorough cleaning. I take mine apart
and let it soak in warm water with an Efferdent or similar denture
cleaner then rinse well. There are commercial cleaners available however.
Another hint: Always close the opening on
the airbrush color after you put some in the airbrush. The bottles can
get knocked over easily and won't spill that way. (voice of experience)
:-)
Good luck and if you have questions, please
feel free to Email me. Marie
Author: JUDY
Subject: AIRBRUSH QUESTION
Date: Fri Mar 13 11:09:16 1998
Message:
I HAVE A COMPRESSOR AND AIRBRUSH THAT I'VE
HAD FOR A LONG TIME, I USED IT FOR
CERAMIC'S CAN I USE IT ON CAKES OR WILL IT
HAVE TO MUCH PRESSURE?
THANKS FOR YOUR HELP
JUDY
Author: lynne
Subject: airbrush compressor
Date: Fri Mar 13 11:35:25 1998
Message:
hi judy; does your compressor have a gage
that you can control the pressure? can't remember just now what the
#s are, but it is rather low........like 12# pressure?? i'll try to look
it up and get back to youl
one word: in computer language typing in all caps is like shouting.
hope you don't mean to shout at us :)
lynne
Author: Dolores
Subject: Re: AIRBRUSH QUESTION
Date: Sun Mar 15 08:36:06 1998
Message:
Since ceramic paint is toxic, before you use
it with icing colors, you should take it totally apart and clean it
thoroughly. Unfortunately I don't know what substance your should use for
cleaning the paint residue out completely. A paint store should
know...then you must get rid of that cleaner too! Then, keep it just for
your cakes so you don't have to go through that again.
Author: Beth Russell
Subject: character cake
Date: Fri Mar 13 09:25:38 1998
Message:
I have recently started my cake business,
just a small one out of my home with hopes for it to turn into something.
I have found some older Wilton pans that have
been discontinued. They are : snoopy, Charlie Brown w/ a
baseball glove and a Donaold Duck pan. I think these pans are great the
problem is I don't have a picture of them to see what
they should really look like. Since I'm still pretty new at this I like
to have that picture and instructions to fall back on. If anyone
has these and could send me the picture/instructions I would greatly appreciate
it. Thanks, Beth
Author: Karol
Subject: Prove It.
Date: Sat Mar 14 17:04:59 1998
Message:
I have been doing cakes for 11 years, and
my mother 20 years before me and i also have 2 sisters that do cakes
and own their own business, None of us has EVER HEARD OF ANYONE GETTING
IN TROUBLE FOR DOING CHARACTER PAN CAKES.
Although we have always had the threat of
it hanging over our heads.And Yes it is ILLEGAL to sell one.
But my question is can anyone out there PROVE
that someone got in trouble for this.
THE PROOF IS IN THE CAKE...........
Author: MaraTLee
Subject: Re: Proof
Date: Sat Mar 14 21:02:29 1998
Message:
Dear Karol:
If you scroll back on the message board, you
will see where Dolores can furnish you with any and all proof you
need. She can send you the name of the person that got into trouble. While
the home baker is not very likely to be a target in a copyright
infringement crackdown and a major bakery would. Why would you take such
a chance?--the money the character brings in is not worth the
aggravation.( In my book anyway!) It is your right to do as
you like and no one is censoring you or the other bakers in your family
but forewarned is forearmed, And as good samaritans we must
let you know, the good along with the bad.
Author: valerie
Subject: proof
Date: Sat Mar 14 20:23:56 1998
Message:
If you scroll back a couple of months, I believe,
this discussion went on then as well. There WAS a posting of
someone getting caught.
I began by using the characters as well. That's
what my friends asked for. But, being made aware of the potential
problem, I'd much rather use the generic or creat my own version. I like
the size of cake and results better anyway.
Just my opinion.
Author: Zara
Subject: Re:Proof
Date: Sat Mar 14 20:52:09 1998
Message:
What did you mean by your versions of the
character cakes, what do you do to accomodate?
Author: Diane
Subject: Just because no one gets caught doesn't
make a WROING RIGH
Date: Sat Mar 14 17:48:58 1998
Author: Rose
Subject: Character Pans
Date: Sat Mar 14 12:02:31 1998
Message:
You can call or fax Wilton to receive the
copoes of the instructions. Wilton has a website that you can get the
number from.
Author: Shanon
Subject: Wilton will not give out/sell pan
liners
Date: Sat Mar 14 14:43:20 1998
Message:
As an instructor for Wilton I have myself
and have had many students who pick up pans at the Goodwill or garage
sales. In contacting Wilton they will not give out/sell pan liners. Only
what comes with the pan when it is purchased from a store.
Not sure about instructions though.
Author: Shanon
Subject: Home Decorators
Date: Sat Mar 14 11:29:27 1998
Message:
I know that a lot of us decorate from our
home and we all take the risk of being caught. What I don't understand
is that if I decorate from home and could be caught by the health dept.
etc then what is so big about doing a few "character"cakes.
It is just a different agency to be in trouble with. If we are willing
to take the risks, we are willing to take the consequences.
I know that we probably agrevate some of you who own your own shops, but
we frankly don't have the money for a seperate kitchen as is
required from my state. I will get there, but not now. And
please don't get me wrong... I hope to own a shop someday like Jeff and
some others. But for me this is how I have to work right now.
And I don't see the big deal about a few character cakes. When I start
my own shop on the other hand that will be a different story. Thanks
for hearing me out.
Author: Jennifer
Subject: character cakes
Date: Sat Mar 14 14:56:42 1998
Message:
I am also a home decorator, and there is a
difference between violating local zoning or health codes and violating
copyright laws. As far as licensing goes, you're dealing with local government
agencies that don't have the time or staff to worry about people
like us. Also, if you do get caught, most likely you'll just get a warning
or a small fine.
In violating copyright laws, your dealing
with lawyers and corporations who have a vested interest in going after
you. While it is unlikely, it does happen. The way it work is some local
lawyer who needs to make some quick money, finds out that you're
doing copyrighted cakes. They contact the corporate lawyers for the company
whose copyright you're infringing upon and offer to go after
you for a relatively small fee. Then they just send someone in
to purchase the cake, and serve you with the subpeona when you sell it
to them, the fines can be as high as $10,000. When others
warn beginners of copyright infringment, it's not because they have a problem
with us home bakers. They're doing us a favor because
many people aren't aware, or just don't think about it when thy're
just getting started. If you chose to do it anyway, you're right, that
is your business. But since us newcomers do come to the
board to get advice from those with more experience, they would be remiss
in not pointing out that risk.
Author: Jeff
Subject: Well said! Good explanation.
Date: Sat Mar 14 17:46:16 1998
Author: Shanon
Subject: Re: Well said! Good explanation.
Date: Sat Mar 14 23:55:52 1998
Message:
I agree with response and it is good to have
every angle explained. But that is just the point... every angle is worth
hearing so that someone can make a personal choice as to what will work
for them. I was scared of doing home decorating for a while
until I heard from others the benefits and the consequences... Then I made
my own opinion. Let's just remember the point of this board
is sharing. For everyone. Not just what one thinks is right.
Author: debboe
Subject: character pans
Date: Sat Mar 14 20:29:38 1998
Message:
I am new to cake decorating , took a course
so I could make fun cakes for my kids. It had never even occured to
me to do cakes for money. However I have been bitten by the cake decorating
bug-I LOVE IT! I have received requests from others
to make cakes for them and have started doing some on the side for money.
I have a well-paying job so it is not about money,
I just really enjoy it .and my family can only eat so many cakes! In the
beginning I made a few character cakes for others but I didn't know about
the copywrite laws. Now that I know about the law
I will only do them for my children. Anyway my point is this I will be
forever grateful to the lady at the cake supply
store who informed my about the law because I certainly cannot afford to
pay $10,000! Right now I only do a few cakes /month
but I dream of owning my own shop someday. I really appreciate all the
advice from everyone and your willingness to help.
Author: Zara
Subject: Pans
Date: Fri Mar 13 10:06:24 1998
Message:
If you can't find the photos, look for coloring
book pictures, thats what I do. I will look through all of my old
yearbooks for you. Good Luck, & Congratulations on starting your biz.
Author: Jeffery Arnett
Subject: Character Cakes
Date: Sat Mar 14 11:10:34 1998
Message:
Hi,
Welcome to the wonderful world of cake decorating.
For about 17 years I've enh=joyed it's rewards.
Since you are new and trying to establish
yourself, take the sound advise you receive from veteran;s like Mara
and Dolores and others that will guide you here.
While there is a great demand for character
cales, Mara was correct in warning you of the dangers of copyright
infringement. While you might consider yourself "just a home-based operation"
, it only takes one bakery or caterer who feels you're their
competition to turn you in and this can cause porblems not only with licensed
characters but, depending on local regulations, you health inspector.
If possible, avoid licensed characters. It
is difficult to stop making them once people learn that you will. There
are many generic character pans out there such as dogs, cats,
dinosaurs as well as baseball, basketball, cars, trucks and
motor cycles to mention a few.
If you want such pans, check out the Pantastic
Line of shaped pans Dolores sells on the online catalog. These are
ovenable plastic pans that last well even for moderate use and, as fas
as I know, carry no copyright restrictions.
These pans only cost about $4.00 so they are
a good investment for someone just starting and needing to get a
variety of pans quickly.
You can also purchase Deco-Paks for licensed
characters that will be perfectly legal for your to use and sell with
your cakes.
Again, filter through the advise your given
on the message boards. I'm sure you will recognize the sound advise
your given. Best of luck in your decorating!
Jeff
Author: MaraTLee
Subject: Re: Licenced character pans
Date: Sat Mar 14 07:26:37 1998
Message:
Dear Beth:
I'm very happy for you that you found some
treasures in those discontinued pans. Unfortunately, you can not use
them to make cakes to sell without breaking the copy write laws! Unfortunate
as that seems, it is a fact. Scroll back a few pages on this
board and you will see what it's all about.
When you use the lic. pans, the person that
created the caracted is NOT recieving a royalty from the money that
you recieve when you sell the cake which is the deal they make when they
bestow the licencing priviledges to any major company. I know
that as a home decorator you are not making dollars hand over fist, but
the laws are the laws and if you get caught, you will treated just
like any major business that is breaking the laws, with fines that
start at $10,000.00 can your business afford this? So be very , very careful
to who you sell this particular character cakes to. I have
even stoped giving them to my friends and families 'kids because people
just don't understand that I've done it for free and that I
can't do them for them. You will not have a problem with any of the
generic character only the ones that are licenced--(if you've seen the
cartoon, they are lic.--:)
Don't be scared away though, because this
will separate the real cake decorating people from the wannabes....the
real cake decorator has to use his or her imagination.!!!
Author: Anonymous
Subject: Mara's Response
Date: Sat Mar 14 10:51:47 1998
Message:
Mara, for one, she is just starting out, it
is nice you are trying to help her, but lets not confuse our trying to
help with trying to boost our own egos you don't know how much
money she is making, and for you to say that stupid comment
about seperating the REAL cake decorators from wannabes....pleaseeee. You
are a little stuck on yourself, not just from this article
but also from the chats. Get over it get real and get on, you are no better
than any of us and we are sick to death of reading your "helpful"
comments that have that extra little dig in towards all of us "home
decorators"
Author: DoloresAuthor: MaraTLee
Subject: Re: comments to anonymous
Date: Sat Mar 14 19:38:13 1998
Message:
Dear Ano.
I did not mean to offend anyone or put anyone
down, as far as, any of my comments about"home" cake
decorators. I've just moved my business out
of my home 3 years ago ( and I've been decorating 20 years!!!) so If
anyone can relate to "home cake decorating" is ME. My comments refered
to the fact that a lot of usout here are critical of Ms. Stewart
but if it wasn't for her bringing all this attention to this field, (positive
or negative)most of us wouldn't be working as much as we do
now. If you feel that my coments are some kind of put down, I do suggest
that you don't read them anymore.
I feel that I have been most encouraging in
my comments and suggestions as I am a Cake decorating teacher and
have been one for about 8 years. also, I've always supported any and all
new cake decorating enthusiast and I do NOT hide behind an
anonymous facade. I feel opinions are like "derrieres" everyONE has one.
The only thing that I've ever been on a soap box about( along
with others) is when ANY decorator does not realize that making
copies of a lic, character could cost them a big chunk of income ( which
by the way NOT one of us can afford )---And if someone were
looking out for me in a way that would save me money and aggrivation I
would be most grateful!!!---Like I've said before, I am very
grateful to have a skill that could help support my family if it ever
came down to it,I am not conceited about my talent, I just know that I
do the best that I can,with the skills that I possess ( and
not necessarily the best work out here, I am very aware of that!) thanks
to the many talented people out there that have taken the time
to teach and share their knowledge with me. As I've said before....this
is a living art....the more you learn , the more you realize
that you need to learn more. So, please keep an open mind and
accept my comments in the spirit that they are shared. I don't wish to
make anyone angry, nor do I wish to engage in a long drawn out debate
over this posting--Just like yourself, I've just stated my opinion.
Author: MaraTLee
Subject: an ammendment to my responce to anon
Date: Sat Mar 14 20:42:19 1998
Message:
What I meant with my comment about separating
the cake decorators from the wannabe's was this, that as one
becomes more experienced and comfortable with the medium, it is natural
to try to venture out on one's own and create original
designs and art. Not just copy something out of a magazine, someone's technique
or follow the coloring instructions like a paint by numbers
piece.----when you are creating you graduate and become a "cake "
decorator.
For the first 1/2 of my sugar career, I just
had someone point to a picture and I copied said picture, and even
though I was making a bit of money--(to buy more cake stuff :)---) I was
not very happy with my work, I allways found fault
with it, never satisfied. Now that I create something for my clients I
am much happier and satisfied with my work. I get
the person to talk about what theylike and dislike, their hobbies , favorite
colors, flavors---I've even taken the phone out
of my shop to force people in to talk to me---I am very passionate about
my work and feel that each of my cakes deserves
a good home--:) so I like to get to know the person that comes in and orders.
I have a deep satisfaction when I show them
the cake before I pack it and they say--"I love it, it's just what I
wanted"-even if they said to me upon ordering --" do whatever, just make
it nice"
When I started 20 years ago, I was a single
mom and making those Wilton cakes keep me off the welfare rolls (
and there is nothing wrong with getting gov't assitance), so yes, I understand
about starting out and being a "home" baker and
all, I just meant that she should be proud to use her talents and instincts
and not depend on molded pans that might get her
in trouble. If you check out Dolores' web page there are many, many ideas
you can adapt and none of them use a character pan.( they are
a pain the the rear to do anyway!)-- By the way, thanks
to all that have stepped forward to defend my "honor"---[[[[[[[[[HUGS]]]]]]]]]]
Author: Annie
Subject: RE: MY RESPONSE
Date: Sat Mar 14 20:48:23 1998
Message:
I am not trying to say that Mara's advice is
not sound, you all misunderstood me. Her advice is really good and
defientely should be taken, it is against
the law to reproduce these CP for cash. It is the little "digs" that she
has to put in her advice for the "home" cake decorators, that,
is what I am sick of, and as far as doing it for 20 years and
3 years in your own shop, that means nothing when you forget where you
came from, or better yet where your students that pay you are
coming from. I think telling her that this situation will seperate the
"real" cake decorators from the wannabes is wrong. Didn't we
all start out as "wannabes"? Isn't that what gives us the drive to be the
best we can be? Tell me who out there did not have a role model
to look towards as far as Cake decorating goes (i.e. Collette
Peters, Slyvia Weinstock, or Dolores, etc) Don't we all want to strive
to be our best while looking towards others (being a
wannabe) to guide us? Am I not mistaken didn't all of you get a little
irritated at lynn on Mar2 for talking about "home" decorators
and their lack of overhead versus her rent, etc. By the way, in response
to if I don't like it don't read it, that was not sarcastic, I thought
those comments have no place on this board, just like all of
you were saying, she has a right to her opinions so do I and
myself as well as others also have a right to not being offended in looking
for advice with our "home" businesses.
Author: Shanon
Subject: "Real Cake Decorators"
Date: Sun Mar 15 00:17:55 1998
Message:
I don't want to get in on this... But I do
have one comment to make. Just because I find a cake I really like in the
Wilton Yearbook and copy it (Maybe because I don't have an idea of my own)
doesn't make me a wannabe. I add my own twists.
I like a lot of what I want to see. Any one who picks up a bag full of
icing and a tip is a cake decorator. We all have
different talents. Mine may not be imagination... It may be in perfection.
(Or having to get the last word. :) Just kidding
) Now lighten up! I feel so belittled sometimes by many who respond with
answers that come acroos like "scroll back 2 monthes"
How many of us have a few hours to do that. I don't know about
anyone else. But it takes me 15 minutes to get through 2 pages. I love
participating in the discussions on this board...
But it is getting rediculous with all of this petty stuff. State your opinion
and move on. Let the person decide about the 10
different opinions on their own. Why do we have to continue this kind of
thing (spelling corrections!)
LET"S ALL MAKE FRIENDS AND GET ON WITH THE
SHARING... NOT PREACHING
Author: Shirley W
Subject: message board
Date: Sun Mar 15 08:44:53 1998
Message:
I agree with Shanon. There is to much fighting
and arguing going on in this world today. Let's not let the message
board be another place to fight and argue. Let there be PEACE !!!!!!!
Shirley W
Author: Dolores
Subject: 'free speech'
Date: Sun Mar 15 10:42:53 1998
Message:
I don't call 'disagreeing' bickering - but
why should any of us have hard feelings just because someone disagrees
with your viewpoint? We should consider ourselves very lucky to have this
wonderful means of sharing our expertise. I think
it is wonderful that we can all give our viewpoint. This way we can see
that their really IS more than one way to do a
technique.
As far as doing licensed character cakes for
sale...YOU are responsible for it when arrested. Ignorance will be
NO excuse. It is against the law to copy-for-sale any item, be it a famous
painting, or just Mickey Mouse. I suppose the best
way to see how wrong it is, is to put yourself in the place of the creator
of any copyrighted item. It belongs to them, not
to us and we should be willing to honor that copyright without even thinking
of infringing. Dolores
Author: Debbie
Subject: Gumpaste (magnolia)
Date: Fri Mar 13 00:18:29 1998
Message:
Need directions to make magnolia flowers from
gumpaste. Can you help. If so let me know.
Author: jen
Subject: magnolias
Date: Fri Mar 13 11:18:49 1998
Message:
Debbie, the December 1997 issue of American
Cake Decorating Magazine has how to do these flowers in
gumpaste.
Author: Maurice Guilfoil
Subject: basket weave
Date: Thu Mar 12 23:29:52 1998
Message:
I have practiced for hours and can do basket
weave very well on the sides of cakes; now comes along a bride
with an August wedding who wants the tops of her cakes, also, to have basket
weave on them. Does anyone have some good pointers on how to decorate
the tops of wedding cakes with basket weave?
Maurice Guilfoil
Author: Carolyn
Subject: Basketweave
Date: Fri Mar 13 00:28:01 1998
Message:
I basketweave the tops exactly as I do the
sides. I do the tops first. Then when I have the sides done, I do the
borders on top and bottom. I use about an 18 or 20 to do all the basketweaving
and borders - no other tip. Gives a very dimensional look to
the cake. If you have seen the Van Horn-Hayward ad with the 4 cakes on
plexiglas stands, that is how they have done that cake. It
is also much faster to use only one tip than to change back and forth
between 2 tips.
Author: lynne
Subject: Re: Basketweave
Date: Fri Mar 13 11:53:52 1998
Message:
carolyn; when i saw you had responded to this
i was excited. i too have had problems getting the top of a cake
covered w/basketweave.
unfortunately, your answer did not help :(
how do you mark the 'uprights'?
does one start in the middle and make the
lines ratiate out to the edge?
usually i have done the sides first and tried
to extend them onto the top, but what a mess that causes :)
please give step by step detailed directions
for those of us who can't seem to cope w/this!
lynne
Author: Carolyn
Subject: Basketweave
Date: Fri Mar 13 14:06:31 1998
Message:
I wish I could draw a picture with this computer,
but unfortunately, I am not that skilled. The computer probably
could do it if I knew how!! Sorry I did not explain it good enough. Let's
try again.
I use only 1 tip - about an 18 or 20 (you can use
whatever star tip you like for size of your weaving). I would start
at the left of the top of the cake and pull one #18 line down from the
top to edge of cake - then go over that line about an
inch. Move up about 3/8" or the width of the tip and make another line
about an inch. Keep going up until you are at the top
again. Then bring another line down over the top of the inch lines and
repeat this. It is the same as if you are doing basketweave
on the sides except that I do it all with one tip rather than 2 tips (a
large writing tip and that straight ridged tip that most people
use for basketweave). Then I do the sides in the same way -
line down (always start at the back of cake) and then make 1" lines across
that up every so far and then another line down, etc. I guess
I never had any trouble doing it and I am certainly no teacher!! I will
demonstrate anything I know, but I am no teacher!
Let me know if you are still having problems
and I can draw a picture (I think!) and snail mail it to you.
Author: lynne
Subject: Re: Basketweave
Date: Fri Mar 13 22:00:06 1998
Message:
thanks carolyn for taking the time to discribe
it better. i think i understnad now. i was always trying to make it
*round* not treating the top as a sq which is what i understand you to
be saying. will let you know when i have another basketweave
to do :) lynne
Author: Maurice Guilfoil
Subject: basketweave
Date: Fri Mar 13 22:51:42 1998
Message:
Carolyn,
Thanks for sharing the good ideas. I never
thought about using the tips which you use. It was good of you to share
these ideas. Do you use 'roping' for your borders?
Maurice
Author: Carolyn
Subject: Basketweave
Date: Fri Mar 13 23:58:35 1998
Message:
Yes, Lynne, I think you have it now. It would
be treating it like a square and not a round. I had never thought of it
that way, but that would be right, I think.
Maurice, I usually use a shell border, but
roping would certainly look fine, too, and some baskets do look like a
roping at the bottom.
It's amazing what we can learn by networking with
each other and I am so glad to be able to share what talents I
have.
Author: JUDY
Subject: BASKETWEAVE
Date: Fri Mar 13 08:50:48 1998
Message:
I DO THE TOP FIRST
START IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CAKE AND DO ONE
SIDE IN BASKETWEAVE THEN DO THE
OTHER SIDE. HOPE THIS
HELPS JUDY