CAKE DECORATING ARCHIVE 14 

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Author: Nancy
     Subject: pans
     Date: Fri Nov 7 00:57:01 1997

     Message:

     Round pans in 2" height and 6,7,8,9,10,12,14,16 in diameters are necessary. Ten I would start with Heart sets,   Ovals, Hexagon etc.

Author: Dana
     Subject: Drawbacks
     Date: Thu Nov 6 18:31:06 1997

     Message:

     So that I can realistically look at decorating as a business opportunity, will someone who is doing this
     professionally, please share with me the major drawbacks to a cake decorating business? I'd like to go in with my   eyes open if I decide to go that route. Thanks

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: drawbacks
     Date: Thu Nov 6 20:06:51 1997

     Message:

     I can't think of any drawbacks! It is so rewarding and fullfilling I can't begin to tell you. My advice would be to go   slow and learn well. Sometimes when people go at this too fast they are sloppy and never get good. But you can   have SO much fun!
     Pans...I'd sure want a set of round pans..6 to 14" at least. You really do need 2 of each of 6-8-10"
     Happy decorating, Dolores

Author: Vito
     Subject: Drawbacks
     Date: Fri Nov 7 21:01:45 1997

     Message:

     I must say there can be a few drawbacks. Even though I don't do cake decorating professionally, I am with
     Dolores, Joyce and the whole bunch every day. First depending on how popular your business is sometimes the   amount of cakes you have to do gets overwhelming. And secondly, getting started in your business might get   expensive, remember, the more clientell you have the more expensive it gets.

Author: Sharon
     Subject: Drawbacks
     Date: Sun Nov 9 15:07:50 1997

     Message:

     The only drawback I have is time. I have 4 small children. 8 months, 4, 5 & 6 years old. I am starting very slow. I   do cakes for friends, neighbors, school, brownies, daisy's, and family and that keeps me busy especially when the   baby naps.

     I think this message board is the greatest. I have learned so much from others questions and replys.

Author: Nancy
     Subject: drawbacks
     Date: Fri Nov 7 01:02:42 1997

     Message:

     The only drawback I have found is not anticipating the amount of time I have to devote to the business. I would   not recomment it to someone who has small children. I find I put in about 60 to 90 hours a week. I have a retail   supply store and a bakery. Just the bakery alone wouldn't be so bad. You do have to learn how to say NO. and   realize when you are booked to the point of saying no. If you don't and overbook you can't do a good job on all  of the cakes. Better to do a few very well than a lot poorly.

Author: MaraTLee
     Subject: Re: Drawbacks
     Date: Fri Nov 7 21:43:46 1997

     Message:

     Dear Dana,
     I'm very happy for you that you have decided to go into this with your eyes wide open, a lot of people find out the   amount of work involved in making cakes and just when they start getting their clientel, they quit! I have a small   shop that I rent for $450.00 a month, I spend between 50 and 70 dollars a month in electricity, $50.00 a month in  equipment lease and about 150-200 every 2 weeks in supplies. Let's add about another 50 to 75 in misc.  expenses-( like bags, cake toppers,taxes,insurance, etc.)--adding the smaller amounts it comes to about $850.00  a month--If I close 1 day a week-that means that I need to make about $35.00 a day just to meet my  expences--to earn a profit I need to pull in about 3 times that--about $100.00. Now, I will be in business 2 years  and I haven't EVEN begun to draw a salary!-Every thing I earn goes back into the business- be it more or better   equipment or for classes, I work sometimes till 3:00 am --when I have 3 weddings in a weekend.( I do not book   any mor

Author: Dana
     Subject: equipment lease
     Date: Sun Nov 9 07:18:47 1997

     Message:

     What equipment do you lease? Ovens? Mixers? Or something else? The price breakdown helps a lot. I'd like to   ask you more questions, if possible. bellis@tvec.com

Author: Lynne
     Subject: drawbacks
     Date: Sun Nov 23 00:15:58 1997

     Message:

     Are you still interested in this information?
     Unlike MaraTLee, my expenses run more like $12-1500 a month. And my landlord is wanting to raise my rent   even tho our major store closed up in July ( "foot traffic" dropped like a rock) and out of 8 small units only 4 of us   remain!
     I still LOVE the work, but the worry of making enough to meet expenses is taking its tole :(
     It will be two years in a few weeks and I don't know if I can go on day to day ........mostly because of the
     landlord. There are many problems in this small strip center..........neighborhood going down, no cooperation from   other businesses in center in keeping area clean...........and now...........UUUGGGGGG!!! I've been invaded by  bugs from neighbor business :( :(
     That's just for openers :) If you want more details, just e-mail me:)
     If you do.....be sure all letters are lower case. Lynne

Author: Pekochan
     Subject: Sugar paste flowers
     Date: Thu Nov 6 02:26:21 1997

     Message:

     Are sugar paste flower the same as buttercream icing flower decorations?
     Your response is greatly appreciated.

Author: Shannon
     Subject: sugar paste flowers
     Date: Thu Nov 6 03:15:04 1997

     Message:

     Sugar paste (if I'm not mistaken) is also called gum paste. It is very different from buttercream. Sugar paste is   more like a dough than an icing. All of the flowers are formed by hand. Buttercream icing flowers are all done with   the use of icing tips. The sugar paste is rolled out like pastry ( much thinner of course) and then the petals of the   flowers are cut out with special cutters. They are like little cookie cutters. Then the flower is formed on florist   wire. Sugar paste is used when a more realistic looking flower is desired. Someone who is experienced with sugar   paste can get their flowers very realistic especially with the use of powdered food coloring or petal powder. I   hope this helps answer your question. :) Shannon

Author: MaraTLee
     Subject: RE: sugarpaste vs. buttercream flowers
     Date: Fri Nov 7 22:06:09 1997

     Message:

     Dear Pekochan:
     Sugar paste is another name for Rolled fondant. That is the icing that you roll out like pie dough and gently place   over your lightly iced cake.

     Gumpaste, or flower paste is the name of the sugar dough that you use to make sugar flowers with. You can roll it   out very thin, ( the thinner the better) use any cutters or patterns to cut out your petal, leaves and such and then   put together by hand to make the most delicate and realistic looking flowers. This is called "gumpaste" because it   uses "gum Tragacanth" as a thickener( an ingredient the pharmacists use to use to thicken the medicinal pastes into   pills.)
     Buttercream flowers are made with tips and bags, mostly on a flower nail ( a sort of mini turntable that you hold   between your fingers.)with any icing that can be piped.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Re: Sugar paste flowers
     Date: Sat Nov 8 11:23:12 1997

     Message:

     When I took a class from a lady from S. Africa she called gumpaste sugar paste. I have heard rolled fondant also   called this. But in the US we have:
     rolled fondant (roll out & cover cakes with),
     gumpaste (to make delicate, realistic flowers, dolls, etc) and
     buttercream icing...soft creamy icing spread on with a knife.
     (Lots of dif. versions/recipes...we all have our favorite - of all!

Author: Joe
     Subject: sugar paste
     Date: Sat Nov 8 20:48:58 1997

     Message:

     sugar paste is a name for rolled fondant,and gumpaste. you can do more with gumpaste then you can with rolled   fondant and buttercream the gumpaste is also called edible porclin. some people also call it cold porclin. check   out the web page www.ices.org you will see gumpaste. some wilton books not the year books but there big thick   one that run about $30 valume 2 and 3 has gumpaste some english cake decorators will say gumpaste or sugar   paste. good luck.

Author: P.Leech
     Subject: Pound cake & buttercream icing
     Date: Thu Nov 6 02:20:36 1997

     Message:

     If I was to use pound cake and have buttercream filling in the middle, wouldn't that be too heavy for the filling and   have the buttercream icing squish out on the sides?

Author: mickey
     Subject: poundcake and buttercream
     Date: Thu Nov 6 09:10:09 1997
    Message:

     This is assuming your pound cake doesn't have the density of gold or some other weighty item. You wouldn't use   thin buttercream, but one with some body should behave okay. And you wouldn't use a really thick layer of filling   either. Sometimes if I want some flavor in a cake like that I cut it into layers, put a thin, thin, coat of jam, or   sometimes pudding, then reassemble the cake.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: buttercream
     Date: Tue Nov 11 08:03:59 1997

     Message:

     Your note sounds as if you may think that bulges or seams between layers are icing squishing out from between   cakes. Not so. This happens because cakes were not level when put together. Gravity dictates that the cake with   the hump is going to fall some. So - if you put the cakes together and quickly ice them, there is going to be some   'falling.' To illiminate this prob., level your cakes and turn ALL of them bottoms-up...AND let the cake set for a   few hours put together with icing between. This allows time to settle and you don't have seams...bulges. Bulges   aren't icing squishing out from between...it is icing 'giving' when the cake settles, that was on the outside. Hope this   helps, Dolores

Author: shirleyr
     Subject: re:cookie ornaments
     Date: Thu Nov 6 01:46:31 1997

     Message:
     shannon,
     I have the salt dough recipe,in a book called dough-crafts by lorraine bodger,it's an old book from woman's day     (1983)
    4cups white flour
     1cup salt (iodized or plain)
     1 1/2cups water
     mix all in bowl, add 1 cup of the water, and mix.
     slowly add the remaining 1/2c water,turning the dough in the bowl. push the dough into a ball, working in any dry     flour and salt left at the bottom of the bowl. knead on a flourer surface for at least 10 mins. wrap the dough tightly     in plastic.you can store it in a refrigerator and use it up to about a week(bring it to room temperature before     working with it.)hope it works for you!

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: ornaments
     Date: Thu Nov 6 20:11:45 1997

     Message:

     We are giving recipes for these on our chat on aol this evening! Glad I picked this...will try and have it uploaded   to my web site in a day or 2. Mine are with cinnamon and applesauce etc. Dolores

Author: Dana
     Subject: dough ornaments
     Date: Thu Nov 6 09:01:15 1997

     Message:

     I have used this same recipe for several years and it has worked great. The ornaments begin to fade after awhile,   but they are great for a year at a time. If you want them to last longer, take extra precautions in wrapping them for   storage. I have a few oraments still from 3 1/2 years ago that look great..

Author: Shannon
     Subject: cookie ornaments
     Date: Sun Nov 9 00:04:16 1997

     Message:

     I have absolutely no experience in making these ornaments so you will have to forgive me if this question is stupid.   Do you actually bake the cookies or do you just let them dry? Also, how do you go about making ornaments out  of cinnamon and applesauce? Sounds a little messy. Ha Ha.     Thanks, Shannon

Author: Shannon
     Subject: salt dough
     Date: Thu Nov 6 02:34:15 1997

     Message:

     Thank you very much for the recipe. I'm going to try it sometime this weekend. I'll post a message to let you know   how they turned out. :)     Shannon

Author: shirleyr
     Subject: re:cookies
     Date: Thu Nov 6 01:38:55 1997

     Message:
     shannon,
     I have the salt dough recipe.

     4cups white flour
     1cup salt (iodized or plain)
     1 1/2cups water

     mix all in bowl, add 1 cup of the water, and mix.
     slowly add the remaining 1/2c water,turning the dough in the bowl. push the dough into a ball, working in any dry   flour and salt left at the bottom of the bowl. knead on a flourer surface for at least 10 mins. wrap the dough tightly   in plastic.you can store it in a refrigerator and use it up to about a week(bring it to room temperature before    working with it.)hope it works for you!

Author: Mindy
     Subject: newsletter
     Date: Thu Nov 6 01:08:38 1997

     Message:
     Hi Dolores
     I downloaded your Nov. newsletter and I can't read it. Almost all of it is boxes instead of letters. I have the winzip   and the Microsoft word to read it but it doesn't work on this newsletter. I was wondering if anyone else is having   trouble with it or if it is my computer that is causing the problem. Thanks, Mindy

Author: Tracey
     Subject: newsletter
     Date: Thu Nov 6 12:59:01 1997

     Message:
     Hi Mindy,
     I downloaded the Nov. newsletter and had no problems with it. Maybe if you downloaded the newletter again.    An error may have occured during downloading or it may have been interuped.

Author: Mindy
     Subject: newsletter
     Date: Fri Nov 7 00:02:08 1997

     Message:
     It was my computer, I downloaded it again and it was fine. Thanks, Mindy

Author: Nana
     Subject: Star Wars Cake
     Date: Thu Nov 6 00:18:24 1997

     Message:
     Any ideas on how to decorate a birthday cake for an 8 year old featuring star wars? Anyone maybe have a  sketch of something? Thanks so much. Have a great day.:)

Author: Julie
     Subject: Starwars
     Date: Fri Nov 7 22:03:53 1997

     Message:

     I made my 5 year old Star Wars nut a R2D2 cake with the tombstone pan. The shape is very similar to the old   R2D2 pan Wilton use to sell.
     I could e-mail you a picture if you'd like.
     The death start is a great idea - he received that for his birthday and loves it.

Author: Nana
     Subject: Star Wars, Julie
     Date: Sat Nov 8 18:50:44 1997

     Message:
     Thanks so much for the ideas. Yes, please E-mail me a picture, it sounds great. E-mail, Rogal@ptd.net.

Author: Vito
     Subject: Star Wars
     Date: Fri Nov 7 21:12:52 1997

     Message:
     Perhaps if you made the cake tiered and on the top layer use a half of the ball pan and airbrush it black , then   place pvc figures of Luke and Darth Vader battleing it out right in the middle, maybe you could pipe some stars on   the half ball to make it more effective. Then in the bottom level place some of the other characters around. I hope   I helped you out.

Author: Dana
     Subject: Star Wars cake
     Date: Thu Nov 6 09:04:51 1997

     Message:

     I have a friend who made the death star (sports ball pan) for her son's birthday. If you wanted a quicker way,   design the starry sky on the cake background and add micro machine type star wars figures. Pipe explosions and   laser fire, etc. around the toys.

Author: Cheryl
     Subject: Star Wars
     Date: Thu Nov 13 11:25:47 1997

     Message:
     I made a cake for a friend using the micro machines on a sheetcake iced blue. Used yellow icing with star tip for   stars and bottom border. Then I simply placed the figures ontop. Simple and easy. One more point I want to   make is that you need to remember that Star Wars is a copyright and that these cakes can't be sold without a   license. Wouldn't want anyone getting in trouble.

Author: Nana
     Subject: Star Wars
     Date: Sun Nov 16 00:13:15 1997

     Message:
     Thanks Cheryl. No problem, the cake is for my little nephew. I picked up an R2D2 with a rock like background.    I plan to use marshmallows dipped in peanut butter chocolate for piles of rocks here and there on the cake with  figures behind and in front of them. Simple, but I think he'll like it.

Author: MARGARET
     Subject: GIFT CAKE
     Date: Wed Nov 5 23:47:27 1997

     Message:

     I made a cake i found in a Womans Day magazine a year or teo ago that looked like a gift wrapped box, it was    glazed with a chacoalate which hardened and then the ribbon and bow were made of white fondant. I lost this    recipie and would love it if someone has any idea where i caould get it!     Thanks, Margaret

Author: Sherry
     Subject: Metal Ring Cake Supports
     Date: Wed Nov 5 22:27:07 1997

     Message:
     Hi!
     I was reading some of the old chats where someone mentioned used the metal rings as cake supports...this makes   me curious: I think I understand how they are put in and how they work, but when it's time to cut the cake, how   do you get them out?      Sherry

Author: Jeannine
     Subject: Cake supports
     Date: Thu Oct 16 08:54:17 1997

     Message:
     I have heard of metal rings used as cake supports instead of dowel rods. Does anyone have any information on    these? Where to purchase? How expensive? Do they work well?

Author: Nancy
     Subject: metal rings
     Date: Sun Nov 2 01:30:31 1997

     Message:

     I love using the metal rings for support in my wedding cakes. They are so stable and cutting is much easier. E-mail   for more info. cybrduck@worldnet.att.net

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: metal rings
     Date: Sun Nov 9 16:31:23 1997
    Message:
     A friend showed me her set. I would never like to use these. They cut through the cake and to me, are more   trouble than they're worth. For sure, your cake would be well supprted though.
     Hers were from 4" wide rings and as high as most cakes...4" or so I think. You would insert the 4" into the 6"   cake. Then I guess you cut a perfect size wedding cake piece...2" deep x 4" high x 1" wide.
     I have no idea where to buy them. Hers were hand made.

Author: Mindy
     Subject: metal rings
     Date: Thu Nov 6 12:25:37 1997

     Message:
     Are these metal rings used instead of dowel rods or
     straws? Are they made out of water pipe or something like that? And how could they be adjustable. Do you put a   smaller one inside of a larger one and have a connection in the middle? I'm sorry about all the questions but I'm   trying to picture this in my head and it's not working. Mindy

Author: Nancy
     Subject: rings
     Date: Fri Nov 7 01:11:11 1997

     Message:

     I use the metal rings in all my wedding cakes. They resemble soup cans with the top and bottom cut off. They are   4 inches in height and come in 3,5,7,9,11 in diameter. The larger cake is frosted and smoothed and the ring that is   smaller than the next layer is pushed into the cake so the top layer of cake rests on the ring. No dowels, straws   etc. Very stable!! Nancy

Author: Mindy
     Subject: rings
     Date: Fri Nov 7 14:04:15 1997

     Message:
     Do they mess the cake up when they are pulled out before cutting? That does sound like they would be very   stable.
     There would be almost no way that they would let the cake tip over.

Author: Nancy
     Subject: rings
     Date: Sat Nov 8 03:23:39 1997

     Message:

     They are not messy at all. When the cake is cut, you cut up to the ring and then the ring is lifted off leaving a round   cake to be cut. You're right, they are very stable!

Author: mickey
     Subject: cake supports
     Date: Thu Nov 6 09:17:43 1997

     Message:

     Hi,
     The ones I have used my husband made so they might not be exactly what is otherwise available, but they simply   lift out of the cake and are set aside. Mine are adjustable and I also use them as pan walls.

Author: Shannon
     Subject: support rings
     Date: Sat Nov 8 23:41:06 1997

     Message:
     Where can you buy these? They sound very easy to use.
     Shannon

Author: Shannon    Subject: support rings
     Date: Sat Nov 8 23:38:10 1997

     Message:
     Where can you buy these?

Author: Nancy
     Subject: buy rings
     Date: Tue Nov 11 00:54:28 1997

     Message:
     I sell the rings at my shop, Fantasy In Frosting
     836 Monmouth St. Newport, Ky You can e-mail me for more information. cybrduck@worldnet.att.net

Author: Joe
     Subject: cake show
     Date: Sun Oct 12 17:37:42 1997

     Message:

     Thank you for your web site it is great I tell alot of people about the cake,candie, related sites this is a good one
     Frosting Artist cake club is putting on a show in Mn at the North Town Mall Nov.1,2 looking for more
     contestants   $10 entry fee includes all areas of your reg devision.
     some of these cakes will be at the MN I.C.E.S convention
     If you want more information on either show email me

Author: Dolores
     Subject: show
     Date: Mon Oct 13 04:37:18 1997

     Message:
     Hi Joe,
     Please post all about your show...and what IS a cake show too...some people won't know they don't need to   compete against pros when they are beginners etc.
     Great - the cakes will be at ices next Aug. can't wait for that convention!

Author: Joe Thielen
     Subject: Nov 1,2 cake show
     Date: Wed Oct 15 17:43:44 1997

     Message:
     The Frosting Artist Cake Club is holding the 17 annual cake show. All are welcome to attend it at the Northtown   Mall in Blaine MN. This is a judged show with 8 levels of entrys, youth,juniors,beginners,intermediate,advanced,sr     advanced,masters,and sr.masters the cost is $10 per person in the judged divisions. Ribbons and trophys will be    awarded to these entrys. I have 6 great demos lined up and lots of door prizes to be given a way. There is also a    table open to non-judge cakes no fee requiered, these cakes are eligible for the publics choice trophy only.
     Please for more information on this show or future shows
     you may e-mail me at Frostingart@juno.com hope to here from you.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: show
     Date: Thu Oct 16 06:30:43 1997

     Message:

     Thanks Joe...will post it on my BB for you.    Dolores

Author: joe
     Subject: show
     Date: Sat Oct 18 15:22:27 1997

     Message:

     Thank you Dolores, hope to see you at I.C.E.S
     I will be working at the banquet reservation table.
     thats my job on the MN convention,.    this board is the best website so far that I have been too.
     keep up the great work. It looks like alot of work to.     Joe

Author: Joe
     Subject: cake show results A+
     Date: Wed Nov 5 20:56:49 1997

     Message:

     Thank you Deloris for posting my cake show. I did get a couple e-mail reguarding the show. but the show was a   hit I had 52 judged cakes in total of all catagorys. this is double from last years show, even one of our new cast   was filming part of the show on sat. awards ceremony was held at the mall sat eve aroud 7pm the mall stays open   till 8:30pm so I wanted people to stay with me at the mall till it closed. I had a survey on this idea and the loved   getting there award and checking all the other winners that same evening, looking at the cakes right as the ribbons   and trophys where placed. and yes I also won 1st place in the advance catagory. Thank you agian.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Yeah!
     Date: Wed Nov 5 21:35:10 1997

     Message:

     Glad I could help! And a BIG congratulations on the first place. Please tell us about your winning cake??? I'm so    glad you won!     Dolores

Author: Joe
     Subject: the cake
     Date: Sat Nov 8 20:39:34 1997

     Message:

     I did a full size sheet cake. Coverd in royle icing. then I airbrushed it yellow. I made a face out of rolledfondant in   a gumpaste face mold. I painted the makeup on the face and did a vegas showgirl head dress. in blue,yellow,green   feathers,made out of the rolled fondant, then using gold blue, and jade luster dust. to accent and highlite the head   dress. then I put some gemstones, and edibleglitter to viva las birthday it up. and then you get first place.this is my   second year in advance area of the show. it took about 5hrs to do the cake just right. for compitition it takes any   body lots of long hard and love for decorating hours.I wish I could show you the pictures remind me at I.C.E.S

Author: Earlene
     Subject: Congrats Joe
     Date: Sat Nov 8 21:12:02 1997

     Message:
     Joe your cake sounds wonderful. Wish we could all see it. Very creative idea. I think that is the one thing I love   about this sugar world of ours - no limits - creativity abounds.

Author: Joe
     Subject: the cake
     Date: Sun Nov 9 19:30:12 1997

     Message:

     I made a styro full sheet cake. coverd in royal icing. then I airbrushed the cake with yellow and w/black swirls, I   made a womens face from a gumpaste mold using rolled fondant. painting the make up on her .i place her at an   angle and maid a feather headdress. with the rolled fondant using blue,green.,yellow colors and highlighting them   with lusterdust. I like using the luster dust on most display pieces i do it gives it a metalic look and something new   for people to see. what is out there.

Author: Laura
     Subject: charm cake
     Date: Wed Nov 5 12:18:28 1997

     Message:
     help!
     I know theres a picture and/or directions of a charm cake
     somewhere I just can't find one NOW please someone if you
     have a picture or know the book or magazine its in (I may
     have it somewhere.)I even think Martha Stewart did one last
     month or so but I can't find it.

Author: mickey
     Subject: charm cake
     Date: Thu Nov 6 08:58:32 1997

     Message:
     Hi Laura,
     Are you referring to a bridal cake and charms? I've done them two basic ways. The prettiest way I think is to tuck   them under a flower arrangement with the ribbons extending as some of the ribbons for the flowers. You can use   different color or width ribbon to identify the charms.
     Another way is to bake charms, usually coins, in the cake it self. I don't particularly like that method but it has   been a tradition in some areas.

Author: MaraTLee
     Subject: RE: Charms
     Date: Thu Nov 6 13:50:41 1997

     Message:
     Hi there,
     If you are looking for the little gift charms that you attach to ribbons so that the bridal party can pull--they can be   found in the Sweet Celebrations catalogue--1 800 328-6722--they are about $30 something for about 6-they   come with a little story card---very cute---I hope that this was of help to you.     Mara

Author: Tracey
     Subject: delivering wedding cakes
     Date: Tue Nov 4 13:42:21 1997

     Message:
     Hello everyone. I need some suggestions on the best way to deliver my first wedding cake on Nov. 22. The cake   is pictured in the 1997 Wilton year book entitled "Flourishing Together". Sorry, I don't know the page number.   The bottom two cakes are stacked and I am unsure if I should stack them before or after I deliver them. I am also   trying to save on the setup time since I am also the wedding reception coordinator and have a gazillion other things   to do. Thanks!!

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: delivering wedding cakes
     Date: Tue Nov 4 14:48:47 1997

     Message:

     Since the bottom 2 are stacked, do this as you set the cake up to decorate it to begin with - add decorations.
     Deliver the top cake seperately then put them together.
     Of course you will need supports in the bottom 2 cakes so they don't smash. I use straws. With that stand you still   must have something to support that top cake too.

Author: Sherry
     Subject: Cake Supports
     Date: Tue Nov 4 20:34:14 1997

     Message:
     Hi Dolores!
     Regarding cake supports...STRAWS? Eegads, you mean drinking straws? And they are strong enough? Wilton   teaches us to use those wooden dowels, but I'd certainly prefer to work with straws, if that works. Please tell me   more about this when you get a moment?     Thanks for everything you do!     Sherry

Author: Tracey
     Subject: Support Straws
     Date: Wed Nov 5 13:08:36 1997

     Message:
     Thanks for all of your advice. What really made me uneasy was transporting the two cakes already stacked. I   have a little more conficence now. I was originally going to try using the straws for support but noticed that the   plastic of the ones sold in our stores were thin. Is there a brand of straws you prefer? I also noticed the straws  used at McDonald's are bigger in diameter and the plastic is thicker. Does this make a difference? So, short of  raiding the straws in McDonald's I am using the dowels.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: straws
     Date: Wed Nov 5 15:55:09 1997

     Message:

     My straws are the reg. size, not big like McDonald's - But I see nothing wrong with using theirs. I wasn't telling   you that you SHOULD use straws, but I sure would...most of all YOU have to feel safe...I understand that.     Dolores

Author: MaraTLee
     Subject: RE: Drinking straws as support
     Date: Wed Nov 5 12:03:03 1997

     Message:
     Hi there,
     Yes, drinking straws are definitely the way to go, as another posted reply states, they are easy to cut, are
     sanitary,(as long as they come wrapped) and (if you know your law of physics) support a great deal of weight   because of their shape. Of, course for larger and heavier cakes you may use more than 4 cut to size, you must use   your better judgement. I never place any in the middle if I need to stack my cakes as I will still use a sharpened   wooden dowel pused through all of my layers(like staking a vampire!!)to imobolize the stacks.( I deliver some of   my cakes about 100 miles to their destination and believe me that stake will hold them together just fine.

Author: mickey
     Subject: cake supports
     Date: Wed Nov 5 09:14:51 1997

     Message:
     Hi,
     Drinking straws do work, and they cut to length a whole lot easier! And when you think about it, they're safer, no    points, splinters, and the plastic is far more sanitary than wood. Try them, and I don't think you'll go back to   wooden dowels.

Author: Shannon
     Subject: straw supports
     Date: Thu Nov 6 02:12:36 1997

     Message:

     MAN! This has really made my night! No more hacking away on dowelrods at 2am with my swiss army knife.
     HA! HA! My last wedding cake was pretty big so I wore that little saw blade out. I will DEFINATELY try this   tip out.     Shannon

Author: Shannon
     Subject: "dummy" cakes
     Date: Tue Nov 4 12:11:02 1997

     Message:
     I'm having a hard time trying to decide how to price my dummy cakes. A woman has asked me to make her
     wedding cake and she could possibly need one. I have a general idea of what I need to charge but it would help if    someone could tell me what customers are actually willing to pay.     Thanks!     Shannon

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: dummy cakes
     Date: Tue Nov 4 14:52:23 1997

     Message:
     Thats an easy one.
     Since dummy cakes cost as much or more than cake ingredients, and the decorating is the very same as for a real   cake, you should charge the same. You can re-use the dummy, so this helps to compensate for the extra it costs. I   wrap dummys in plastic wrap, stretch & tape down with masking tape. To unwrap, just untape over the garbage  can. A shrink-wrap machine is great

Author: Lisa
     Subject: Bon Bon Fillings
     Date: Mon Nov 3 12:45:23 1997

     Message:

     I am planning to give chocolates as gifts this Christmas and would like to make them all using bon bon molds for   uniformity. I plan to use Dolores' peanut butter filling for some and was wondering if anyone else has any ideas for   soft/creamy fillings. Does anywone know how I would use caramel to fill these without melting the shell? Any help   would be appreciated...

Author: mickey
     Subject: bon bon fillings
     Date: Tue Nov 4 11:08:13 1997

     Message:

     Have you considered a good coconut filling? Combine dessicated coconut and corn syrup, let it stand til the syrup   is absorbed by the coconut-it'll resemble Mounds candy bar center. Use that for a filling. Chop cherries, raisins,   nuts and such and combine in a vanilla/fondant center. Swirl strawberry jam with some vanilla filling. If you add a   little milk or cream to caramel when you are melting it it won't be so firm when it cools that you couldn't fill the   chocolate molds and they not melt.

Author: Traci
     Subject: groom's cake
     Date: Sun Nov 2 16:18:00 1997

     Message:
     I have a customer who wants his groom's cake to be a hockey puck! Any creative suggestions other than a black   round cake?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re:cake
     Date: Mon Nov 3 08:12:40 1997

     Message:

     If you DO make it black, you could start with chocolate icing and maybe have it a very dark brown (by adding   some black). May be more appetizing. If I were doing it, I would want to see a REAL h. puck so I might think of   something to make it realistic looking.

Author: Julie
     Subject: hockey puck
     Date: Mon Nov 3 09:09:01 1997

     Message:

     Yes, copy a real hockey puck - some of them have a brand name and other writing on them - something besides   all black. Maybe put the puck on another cake with a goal net made out of Royal or color flow.

Author: Carolyn
     Subject: Re:
     Date: Wed Dec 3 00:56:46 1997

     Message:

     I have a Groom's cake to do in January for 200. She wants a square tiered cake for 200 - chocolate with
     chocolate icing and decorated with chocolate dipped grapes. My question is: Has anyone dipped grapes and is   this the same procedure as dipping strawberries??

Author: Lynne
     Subject: Re: Re:
     Date: Wed Dec 3 01:42:33 1997

     Message:

     Hi;
     That will be a really neat cake!

     I have done grapes. Yes it is the same as doing strawberries. Just be sure the fruit is NOT COLD and dry before   dipping. Have fun.     Lynne (kakeladi)

Author: Carolyn
     Subject: Groom's Cake
     Date: Wed Dec 3 09:16:54 1997

     Message:

     Sorry, I could not get the subject to print out. It just kept messing up, so I went without the subject - guess   everyone will think it is a MYSTERY!! Thanks for answering.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Re: Groom's Cake
     Date: Wed Dec 3 09:29:29 1997

     Message:
     Carolyn,
     Drag your mouse over the message to highlight all of it. Press your Control key and hold it down. Then press your   C key. Let up on both. Then open your word processor - or NOTEPAD - or any...and Hold down your Control   key while pressing your V key. Let up on both. This should put the message on for you to see, re-arrange or  copy...etc.

Author: Nancy
     Subject: Lemon Poppy seed cake
     Date: Sun Nov 2 15:42:11 1997

     Message:

     I have a request for lemon poppy seed cake with raspberry filling for a wedding cake. I am looking for a recipe or  could I add Poppy seeds to a lemon cake mix?

Author: Christina
     Subject: Re: Lemon Poppy seed cake
     Date: Sun Nov 23 16:06:07 1997

     Message:
     I my self don't like lemon poppy seeds myself but I look it up on my computer cook book and it says you can add   poppy seeds to the cake. =-)

Author: Julie
     Subject: peach cake
     Date: Sun Nov 2 14:37:23 1997

     Message:
     First I want to say thank you to Jill and B.KeithRyder. My friend's kids loved the spider cakes. The recipe was all   over the internet but that was the only picture.
     My new dilemma - a friend wants a cake that looks like a peach. I'll was thinking either use the ball pan and make   one big peach or make a bushel filled with a bunch of little ones. Does anyone have any idea on how to make the     peach look fuzzy? I do not have an air brush.      Thanks - Julie

Author: Larry
     Subject: fuzzy peaches
     Date: Mon Nov 24 20:19:07 1997

     Message:

     A possible idea might be to use colored coconut or use a tip #233 to create "fuzz" all over the peach

Author: Sherry
     Subject: Fuzzy peach
     Date: Mon Nov 10 15:22:27 1997

     Message:
     Hi!
     Maybe you've already done this cake, but I've been thinking about what might help with fuzz. Have you ever used   Equal Spoonfuls sweetener? It's light and fluffy -like...i wonder if you sprinkled it over your peach(es) or dipped   them in this stuff, might it make them look fuzzy? I'll have to try this myself, just to find out. Maybe I'll just make  up a ball of stiff buttercream for a test.     Best wishes,     Sherry

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re:peaches
     Date: Sun Nov 2 15:58:28 1997

     Message:

     You can make peaches of marzipan or buttercream 'clay' (but.clay=add p. sugar until icing isn't sticky) Then, tint    them with gumpaste dust. Its really chalk, but non-toxic. Also, for 'fuzz' you could color conf. sugar with   powdered food coloring, roll a 'peach' into shape then roll in the colored sugar. I think it would work. I don't   know how the chalk will work over the sugar coated object tho. BTW, we carry leaves that are appropriate.   Would be nice to have a round cake like a basket full of peaches maybe

Author: shirleyjeanne
     Subject: flower nail woes
     Date: Sun Nov 2 14:12:00 1997

     Message:
     It's rainy and dreary here so eveyone needs to laugh. I had a gal ask me for help some time back. Seems she   could never get her flowers out of a lily nail looking like anything. She said they were fine and looked good, til she   used that other little gizmo, the other half of her flower nail, to take her flowers out. Seems they got all squashed -   what should she do? And she was serious!

Author: Patricia Dumas
     Subject: candy
     Date: Sun Nov 2 09:59:58 1997

     Message:

     I am looking for a recipe for Key Lime fudge. A friend of mine had some on a vacation in Florida and we have   been hunting for this recipe ever since. Does anyone have this recipe?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: Key Lime Pie
     Date: Mon Nov 3 08:19:03 1997

     Message:
     Here are 2 that look good...I have not tried them:

     ---------- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.02

     Title: Original Florida Key Lime Pie
     Categories: Pies
     Yield: 6 servings

     -KEN MITCHELL (VRHN54A) 1/2 c Key Lime Juice, fresh
     PIE CRUST: 1 cn Sweetened Condensed Milk
     1 1/4 c Graham Cracker Crumbs 4 Egg Yolks, beaten
     1/4 c Butter, softened TOPPING:
     1/4 c Sugar 4 Egg Whites
     FILLING: 1 Key Lime, sliced thin

     PREPARATION - CRUST: Combine Graham Cracker crumbs & sugar. Add softened butter to mixture &
     blend well. Press mixture on the bottom & up the sides of a 9" pie pan. Shell can be easily formed by sandwiching
     the mixture between two 9" pans (butter the upper pan so that it will release easily).
     Bake for 5 to 8 min. in an oven pre-heated to 325 degrees. Remove

Author: Pat
     Subject: key lime fudge
     Date: Mon Nov 3 18:09:51 1997

     Message:

     Thanks Delores for the Key Lime pie recipe. It looks yummy, I'll have to try it soon. Do you have the recipe for    Key Lime fudge also?

Author: Ellen
     Subject: Onion paper
     Date: Sun Nov 2 02:13:31 1997
     Message:
     What exactly is onion paper? Is it edible?

Author: shirleyjeanne
     Subject: onion paper
     Date: Sun Nov 2 14:02:06 1997

     Message:
     Onion paper is just that--paper. A thin,lightweight paper good for tracing patterns, anything of that nature.No it is   not edible. Wafer or rice paper is used in cake decorating, and it is edible.

Author: Sugar & Spice
     Subject: wafer paper
     Date: Sun Nov 2 14:40:32 1997

     Message:
     Ok. How do you use wafer paper? Do you trace a
     picture onto it? If so, what do you use to trace?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re:wafer paper
     Date: Sun Nov 2 16:03:48 1997

     Message:

     Wafer paper is made of rice and potatoes. Is perfectly edible. Is white and looks like stiff paper. The backside is   rough and tou put the pict. on the smooth front side. Trace with non-toxic pens. Then I like to spread on clear   piping gel and use straight (or diluted) food coloring to paint my pict. I like to let it dry then spread piping gel on   the back so it will stick to the iced cake and apply it. But you could spread gel on the back 1st, then the front and   work directly on the cake...it DOES take gel a long time to dry...2-3 days if humid.
     This worked especially well for me once when someone brought me a 5 foot poster & I free-handed it down to   size.

Author: Larry
     Subject: Wafer paper
     Date: Tue Nov 25 15:08:47 1997

     Message:

     Can anyone tell me where I can order wafer paper? Thanks.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Re: Wafer paper
     Date: Wed Nov 26 09:51:23 1997

     Message:

     Yes, go to: http://w3.one.net/~proicer/index.html
     My web site, and then choose
     MAIL ORDER / MISCELLANEOUS SUPPLIES...choose 'W' to go right to 'wafer paper'

Author: Sugar & Spcie
     Subject: Wafer paper
     Date: Sun Nov 2 19:40:35 1997

     Message:

     Can you draw/trace on the wafer paper with non toxic
     pens and then fill in with icing? Doe the paper absorb
     into the icing on the cake? Once the gel or icing is on
     the paper is it sturdy to move, or should you trace then
     place it on the cake and then complete the filling in?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: wafer paper
     Date: Mon Nov 3 08:29:54 1997

     Message:

     Yes, you could do this. But then I'd apply the wafer paper onto the cake first.
     No, it doesn't absorb into the icing.
     No/can't move using icing - Yes, if you use gel - then apply it to the cake once dry -it is easy
     Yes, trace, apply to cake, then decorate the pict.
     This is real pretty and shiny to use for Santa or church windows etc.

     Another thing I've done is to write on it and lay it on the cake as a DIPLOMA, and also as a sheet of paper in a   typewriter (cake).

Author: Sugar & Spice
     Subject: tracing
     Date: Tue Nov 4 01:54:10 1997

     Message:

     You are such a help. I'm trying to find a tracing paper
     to trace pictures and put the paper on the cake. I don't
     want it to be noticable, and of course it will have to be
     edible.

     I'm not a great artist -- ok, I'm not even necessarily a good
     artisit. There is more to decorating than flowers, etc.
     I need help for all the "specials" people want. Any ideas?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: tracing
     Date: Tue Nov 4 14:44:59 1997

     Message:

     You should download my stencils.zip
     It shows you how to transfer a picture using materials you have around the house without any free-hand drawing.     Then you simply outline & fill-in stars as you would the shaped cakes. Dolores

Author: Sugar & Spice
     Subject: downloading
     Date: Wed Nov 5 01:30:24 1997

     Message:

     Delores
     I downloaded a newletter and it is lost somewhere in   Computer land. I never did find out how to get where I  need to be to read anything. Can you help?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: newsletter
     Date: Wed Nov 5 15:49:34 1997

     Message:

     I downloaded a newletter and it is lost somewhere in   Computer land. I never did find out how to get where I   need to be to read anything. Can you help?
     Hope I can help...usually downloads go into a default directory off your web browser ( like Netscape or
     Microsoft Explorer etc). But you can find them by doing a search on your computer. If you have Windows 95,   open Explorer...not the browser! But the yellow icon with the magnifying glass in it. Fo to TOOLS (at top) and  'Find"
     If you know the exact name of the newsletter, fill this in the box and choose which drive or folder to look in. IF -   you don't know the name...I always call it ..nltr.zip - so fill in *nltr.zip - Be sure to add the ( * ) as a wild card.
     If this brings it up you will need to unzip it. Double-click & it should unzip. At least...remember the folder it is in   and use Explorer to find it. Your computer should (and probably is) equiped with an unzipping facitlity. Then,    when unzipped - double-click 9710nltr.doc

Author: Tracey
     Subject: downloading
     Date: Wed Nov 5 13:20:58 1997

     Message:
     Hi Sugar & Spice,
     Did you unzip the file you downloaded first? Then you can view it in Microsoft Word. Or, did you download the   newsletter and not know where the file is?

Author: Sugar & Spice
     Subject: downloading
     Date: Wed Nov 5 20:46:51 1997

     Message:
     Tracy......Yes, I would be the one that jumped in with   both feet....I downloaded first and now it is lost!!!
     Oh My!. I'll try Delores' suggestions and see what    other messes I can make.
     Computers are SUCH fun!!

Author: Dora
     Subject: Chrysanthemums
     Date: Sat Nov 1 17:34:33 1997

     Message:

     I am trying to make Chrysanthemums using royal icing. I can't seem to master the technique. I am having trouble   getting the petals to curl upward. Also when I use medium consistency icing my petals droop, but when I use stiff   consistency icing the petals don't have clean edges & the icing sometimes breaks. If anyone has any suggestions I   would sure appreciate it!     Thank you,     Dora

Author: Nancy
     Subject: flowers
     Date: Sun Nov 2 02:00:33 1997

     Message:
     Try using a medium to stiff buttercreme. The trick is in the consistency of the icing

Author: Shannon
     Subject: cookie ornaments
     Date: Sat Nov 1 13:13:56 1997

     Message:
     I was reading an earlier post and it reminded me of something I was wanting to ask about. I am wanting to make    cookie ornaments to go on our Christmas tree this year. In the earlier post, I think it was Mara, mentioned salt   dough. I would like some of the cookies to look like gingerbread and some to look like sugar cookies and I   would like to be able to keep them. I was planning on decorating them with royal icing. Does anyone have the   recipe for salt dough or a cookie dough I could use for this? If anyone has any helpfull hints I would appreciate it.     THANKS,     Shannon

Author: Nancy
     Subject: ornaments
     Date: Sun Nov 2 02:03:16 1997

     Message:
     The was a recipe in the MBN for an ornament using Applesauce, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Makes a nice   scented ornament.

Author: Julia Barnes
     Subject: Gingerbread Mold?
     Date: Sat Nov 1 07:07:22 1997

     Message:
     In your online cataloge there was a section on Gingerbread houses under the New items. I wasn't sure what   Gingerbread House-79-22629 referred to? Is that a Gingerbread house mold for gingerbread dough, or is it a   candy mold? What size is the finished product?     Thanks.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: gb houses
     Date: Sat Nov 1 11:08:59 1997

     Message:

     Yes, I looked at it from your standpoint and it isn't clear to me either! What it means...you make a barn, house or   churche, etc, of gb, then you make the chocolate pieces to go WITH the house in these candy molds (shown as   they are). Number is # for mold.

     Size...most gb houses would work. I have a pattern that would work on my web site. I think there is a barn in one   of the gb books we carry - if you need me to check, let me know. Dolores

Author: Juanita
     Subject: crumb gel
     Date: Fri Oct 31 23:18:19 1997

     Message:

     I have difficulty with the icing that goes on cake to prevent crumbs..."crumb gel"
     Could someone tell me the correct consistency or "look". The icing has seperated from a cake....
     thanks

Author: shirleyjeanne
     Subject: crumb coating
     Date: Sun Nov 2 13:55:39 1997

     Message:

     Try using a fairly soft buttercream icing. It doesn`t completely cover up the cake, only seals the surface. It might   work better for you if you let the crumb coated cake sit 30 minutes or so to set. This seals "glues" the crumbs   down, fills in any irregular spots, and allows you to ice your cake without having to worry about crumbs in the final   icing. More experience and handling will allow you to use the same consistency icing that you use for the overall   icing. With care, you can go ahead and ice a crumb coated cake right away, but I wouldn`t recommend that until   you have a better feel for the technique. Hope this helps you.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: crumbly
     Date: Sat Nov 1 11:14:10 1997

     Message:

     Your icing (for a crumb coat)- I use the same consistency. Just that I press very hard to crumb coat. Then I go   right back and finish it thicker. Hard to explain what consistency to use...icing should always be thin enough that it   doesn't pull off crumbs and spreads on easily. Like whipped cream sort of. Practice this a few times and you will   understand better. Dolores

Author: daila
     Subject: icing rose petals fray
     Date: Fri Oct 31 12:23:54 1997

     Message:
     When I make icing roses (using the Wilton buttercream frosting) the ends of the petals always fray. Any
     suggestions? Thanks.

Author: MaraTLee
     Subject: Re: Frayed rose petals
     Date: Mon Nov 3 21:12:08 1997

     Message:
     Hi there,
     if you just take a small brush and paint a thin line of piping gel in your bag, fill your bag with your icing, and then   place the narrow end off your tip where the piping gel is, your petals will not fray no matter how stiff your icing is.     mara

Author: mickey
     Subject: rose petals
     Date: Sun Nov 2 10:25:14 1997

     Message:

     Like Dolores said, icing could be too stiff to start with. Also could be a grain of sugar or something caught at the   tip. Could be icing not thoroughly mixed, different consistencies.

Author: Karen
     Subject: Rose Petals
     Date: Fri Oct 31 13:41:28 1997

     Message:
     I have recently finished the 1st Wilton Class and my instructor suggested adding 2 tablespoons of clear KARO   syrup to 1 batch of icing. It does not change the consistency but it will make the icing much smoother.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: rose petals
     Date: Sat Nov 1 11:17:09 1997

     Message:
     It can be several things:
     1. Sometimes your icing is simply too stiff
     2. Maybe your small end of your 104 tip is too pinched...open it a little with a table knife.
     Also, Wilton 104 tips are coming in with the bottom of the tip spread TOO wide. I use pliers (just on the very   end) to close it a little. I do this for my students too.
     Fixing tips is quite common for decorators...Dolores

Author: P.Leech
     Subject: secret to moist cake.
     Date: Fri Oct 31 09:20:50 1997

     Message:

     What are a few of the secrets toa moist cake without it being so dense?
     Thanks.

Author: MaraTLee
     Subject: Re: tips on moist cakes
     Date: Wed Nov 5 12:12:35 1997

     Message:

     Hi there,
     Here are some tips that I use in my shop:
     1. after you bake and cool your cake a bit, place a paper towel over the cake and invert over a cooling rack. Do   not remove pan. Let the pan sit over the cooling cake as long as possible. What this does,is the steam the cake   releases is reabsorbed by the cake, making your cake a bit moister.
     2. you can make a simple syrup of 2 cups sugar and 1 cup water, ratio is always 2:1, put syrup in a clean spray   bottle and spray the cake before you ice it.
    3. allways trim the edges off your cakes, especially large ones. We tend to bake those a little longer so the edges   then to be a bitryer than palatable. All you need to do is trim less than an eight of an inch, just enough to expose   the tender cake beneath the surface.      I hope these tips will help you out.

Author: Shannon
     Subject: moist cake
     Date: Sat Nov 1 12:28:34 1997

     Message:
     I have a couple of ways. I never let the clock tell me when my cake is done. If the recipe says bake 35 minutes I    set my timer for 25-30 minutes and then test it by hand until the cake is done. (I feel the center of the the cake     with my hand to see if it springs back when I touch it) I wouldn't recomend this for someone who doesen't make     cakes alot because if you're not carefull it could make you cake fall. The BEST way I've found to get a moist cake     is to add about 1/3 cup of sour cream to whatever cake recipe or mix you are using. It doesn't empart any flavor     it just makes the cake moist. Hope this helps. :)     Shonnon

Author: Val
     Subject: moist cakes
     Date: Sun Nov 16 09:53:00 1997

     Message:

     Do you change quantities of other ingredients when you add the sour cream?

Author: Shannon
     Subject: sour cream
     Date: Sun Nov 16 18:41:59 1997

     Message:

     Val,
     Hi! No there's no need to change the other ingredients. I have tried it with several different recipes and have had    good results each time. It probably doesn't matter, but, I usually add it when I'm adding my eggs. You could add    it anytime really. I wouldn't add it after you've already got the flour in there though because you might end up over    mixing your cake.     Shannon :)

Author: Shannon
     Subject: moist cake
     Date: Sat Nov 1 12:28:09 1997

     Message:

     I have a couple of ways. I never let the clock tell me when my cake is done. If the recipe says bake 35 minutes I    set my timer for 25-30 minutes and then test it by hand until the cake is done. (I feel the center of the the cake     with my hand to see if it springs back when I touch it) I wouldn't recomend this for someone who doesen't make     cakes alot because if you're not carefull it could make you cake fall. The BEST way I've found to get a moist cake     is to add about 1/3 cup of sour cream to whatever cake recipe or mix you are using. It doesn't empart any flavor     it just makes the cake moist. Hope this helps. :)     Shonnon

Author: Tracey
     Subject: over baked
     Date: Fri Oct 31 18:31:35 1997

     Message:
     If the cake has been baking for to long it causes it to be dry. Also, I have found that if I lower the baking
     temperature to 325 degrees the cake is moist and does not hump up and crack. Dolores had a few suggestions in  a few of the chats. Good luck.

Author: Chris Brooks Janne
     Subject: Color Flow
     Date: Thu Oct 30 14:26:36 1997

     Message:

     Recently I have been working with color-flow and I enjoy it a lot. I have read that buttercream frosting can break   down color flow. So far I have not had a problem. Has this been a problem for others? Also, does anyone know   a technique that reduces bubbles from forming?
     I was reading in an old issue of "Mailbox News" about using marshmellow cream for color flow. Has anyone tried     this?

     Thanks, Chris

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Color Flow
     Date: Fri Oct 31 08:57:59 1997

     Message:
     Bubbles: If you leave it sit for a few hours after you thin it the bubbles will rise to the top. Or you can prick them    with a pin. Or just don't beat at as high of a speed - takes longer.

Author: Amy Christian
     Subject: Cake Pricing
     Date: Wed Oct 29 15:35:10 1997

     Message:
     Help! I am having such a difficult time coming up with a price list for my cakes. I realize it may be hard to help if   you haven't seen my work. I'd say I'm intermediate to advanced. My husband says my basic price for a 9" should   be $20. My time is valuable and I don't have a problem being the most expensive in my small town, as long as it's   worth it. But I don't want to overprice. Can I get some example prices including extras such as colorflow,   extentions, buttercream vs. fondant etc. How do you charge for your time?
     Thank you     Amy

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: pricing
     Date: Thu Oct 30 04:22:39 1997

     Message:
     Hi Amy, Do read the AOL chats for lots of this kind of info. But, pricing differs according to where you live. In   NYC, they need to get more beccause their cost of living is more etc. In s. OH we get around $16-18.00 for a 9"   cake. This would be a base price, then...Add additional charges for techniques or plastics added. See if you can   find out what others are charging in your area. NEVER charge less than the in-store bakeries...grocery stores etc.
     YOU devote much more time and you should be more expensive. One girl in class just told me she charges only   $10.00 per cake mix and can't seem to build a business. I think she is so cheap that people think something is    wrong with her cakes! Dolores

Author: joe
     Subject: re;price
     Date: Wed Oct 29 16:32:57 1997

     Message:
     I charge $20 for a 10 filled cake basic decorating. some times that includes delivery. when I do extra with royle     icing or waffer paper design it can cost up to $30 for 10inch. some people I have talked to say if they are doing  lace royal hearts or snowflakes they charge 2-5dollars per piece depending on work involved. and if they want   the gold added to it it goes higher. if they want gumpaste flowers I would charge $40 and up agian depending on   the flower requested.also check out bakerys see what they might charge.

Author: Edith Dillion
     Subject: alpine @ white satin
     Date: Wed Oct 29 12:52:46 1997

     Message:
     If anyone knows where these two products can be bought in samll quanities.I have only come in contact with big  ones from Dawn foods and they do not sell to home only stores. thank you E.Dillion

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: Alpine
     Date: Thu Oct 30 04:24:47 1997

     Message:

     We carry the Alpine in small quantities. I think I have listed prices (not sure-still working on this)- Go my MAIL   ORDER/ONLINE CATALOG...Dolores

Author: Edith Dillion
     Subject: Alpine
     Date: Thu Oct 30 10:38:10 1997

     Message:

     Deloris, tried to get into web site but would not let me in. Please send me a catalog if possible. Also do you have
     White Satin,It's to make frosting with. Thanks Edith

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: catalog
     Date: Fri Oct 31 09:07:15 1997

     Message:

     don't have white satin. The reason you couldn't get in the catalog - probably, was I was working on it when you   tried. To send it snail mail, email me (proicer@one.net) your address. Please do say if you are looking for specific   itesm...cake, candy, gumpaste etc. I'll make sure you get the info. I don't have any pictures yet...I have that in    mind...TIME! Dolores

Author: Edith Dillion
     Subject: white satin
     Date: Sun Nov 2 14:47:45 1997

     Message:
     do you know of any where white satin can be purchased. Dawn foods has it but only in large quanties and they do   not sell to private only business Thanks Edith

Author: Dolores
     Subject: white satin
     Date: Mon Nov 3 08:22:40 1997

     Message:
     Right - all these products come in very large packages...for bakeries. We are dividing it into smaller portions.
     I had never heard of White Satin. Probably because dif. brands are avail in dif. areas. They are all similar.

Author: Edith
     Subject: white satin
     Date: Mon Nov 3 16:09:24 1997

     Message:
     Deloris White satin is used with Alpine for icing, are you the owner of Cake Emporium? I just found out about the   store and I live in Henderson Ky. I've been wanting to come down and see what all is there. Edith

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: shop
     Date: Tue Nov 4 15:15:46 1997

     Message:

     No, my shop is called Sugarcraft and I'm just north of Cincinnati...not far from you really. Straight up Route 4 - in   Hamilton...come see me if you get the chance. Love having you. Guess you'd love it...we have everything LOL

Author: Edith
     Subject: Store
     Date: Sat Nov 15 17:51:05 1997

     Message:
     Hi have you ever thought of opening a store in henderson Ky. this town really need something. if so let me know   would love to work there

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: new store
     Date: Sun Nov 16 11:57:17 1997

     Message:
     Weeeelll...I wish, but I suppose I'll have to decline the invitation. If I had any more work to do I'd have to discard   the idea of 'sleep' now. :)
    Actually, these shops are few and far between because of the vast amount of work and the very long years before    you make some profits.

Author: Edith
     Subject: store
     Date: Sun Nov 16 15:56:21 1997

     Message:

     Sure sorry to hear that,this town really needs something like your store

Author: T.Leech
     Subject: sugar or gum paste flowers
     Date: Wed Oct 29 12:40:58 1997

     Message:

     I was wondering if you know of any place that sell large or medium sized roses at reasonable price. The one I saw   was, for a large one it was $15.00(sugar flower).

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: gp roses
     Date: Thu Oct 30 04:38:23 1997

     Message:

     WOW! $15.00 per rose...We have the following gp roses:
     Available in colors: blue, cream, dusty rose, ivory, lavender, mauve, peach, [pink, red, royal blue, white, yellow.
     You don't have to take a whole box, but will give you a price break & here is the info if you do:
     Small 1 1/8" $1.00 each (56 to a box/$43.00)
     Medium 1 1/4" $1.30 each (56 to a box/$58.00)
     Medium/large 1 1/2" $1.50 each (48 to a box $57.50)
     Large 2" $1.70 each (30 to a box $40.50

     On my ONLINE CATALOG I list many other gp flowers etc (Check under 'Flowers' Dolores

Author: Julie
     Subject: cream whip icing base
     Date: Wed Oct 29 06:38:42 1997

     Message:
     I noticed in your recipe for White Buttercream you use cream whip icing base when making roses. Is that the   similar to meringue powder?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: Cr w. icing base
     Date: Thu Oct 30 04:40:35 1997

     Message:

     Cream whip icing base has no comparison really. But it does look like marshmallow cream you buy in the jar. Not    the same - cr whip contains gum which makes the flowers crust better, M. cream does not. (We do carry this in     small quantities if you'l like to try it).

Author: Galena
     Subject: Ice cream Cake
     Date: Wed Oct 29 05:21:44 1997

     Message:

     Can anyone tell me what kind of frosting to put on an ice cram cake.You know the one with one layer cake and     the other ice cream? I get reguests for this quite often and I need a little info before approaching this. Thank you!

Author: Jeannine
     Subject: Bettercream
     Date: Thu Oct 16 08:51:29 1997

     Message:

     Is anybody out there using Buttercream nondairy whipped icing? Are you having trouble with colors bleeding?     How have you coped with it? I love the taste. Any advice?

Author: Mary Bridges
     Subject: Bettercream
     Date: Mon Oct 27 15:24:04 1997

     Message:

     Dear Jeanine:
     How are you coloring your bettercream? Are you using airbrush colors? Too thin, may cause bleeding and arenot    very concentrated which causes you to use more to obtain the color intensity, and breaks down the consistency of    icing...Or, are you using jar paste? The best is a highly concentrated liquid paste, which gives you the color    intensity you want without compromising the integrity of the texture. Also, if you are storing your cake in the box    of a very cold refrigerator, condensation forms and sometimes bleeds the colors. If you are serving your cake the    next day, it can be boxed and left out of refrigeration. Good luck!

Author: Debi
     Subject: Re: Bettercream
     Date: Tue Oct 21 14:44:09 1997

     Message:

     I'm sorry for not answering this sooner. But from what I have learned from my bakery is that it always bleeds. We    get away with it by using buttercream icing to decorate and the whipped to frost the cakes. Hope this might help    you.

Author: Joe
     Subject: frosting ice cream cakes
     Date: Wed Oct 29 16:42:58 1997

     Message:

     You can use 1 of 3 products availible on the market. Dairy Queen uses Ice-n-fil and or bakers choice(avail thru    insty whip.) baskin robins and bridgmanns use Riches bettercreme. all are very good products I have use each of     them the only problem each have is you can only get light colors out of them not that deep red or royal blue. each     of the non-dairy products are great also on wedding cakes and birthday cakes can stay out of the refidge up to     3days on any cake. I teach ice-n-fil classes and we also make mock moose chocolate centers it also makes a     very good cheese cake. and great pie fillings. this company is located in IL. baker choice dose the same they are    located in IA.

Author: Cathy
     Subject: Sugarcraft mail order
     Date: Tue Oct 28 15:32:13 1997

     Message:

     Is there a problem getting into the Sugarcraft online catalog? I'd like to order some citric acid bur I can't get into    the catalog.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: Sugarcraft
     Date: Thu Oct 30 04:43:45 1997

     Message:

     The Online Catalog was offline night before last...problems. It is back on and more items added. Sorry.
     Citric acid: 1/2 oz - $1.35 (liquid)
     4 ox $1.99 (crystals) - what I like
     to proicer@one.net

Author: mmarrero
     Subject: recipes
     Date: Tue Oct 28 13:00:51 1997

     Message:
     I am searching for different types of cake recipes from Puerto Rico. It's the type of cake that has syrup including     rum or brandy. Also any type of special wedding cake.
     I am searching for a sugar flower leave mold that already includes the veines. I have search in the web and can't     find anything related to this. Thank you

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: gp leaf molds
     Date: Thu Oct 30 05:01:03 1997

     Message:

     I think the Italian Cream Cake could be what you'd like. I don't have a recipe but it is easy to find on the web.
     I have the following sugarpast (gumpaste in the US) leaf molds with veins. These are resin: BY 'JEM'
     * Rose Leaf Veiners-3 sizes in a set: 1 1/2", 2", 2 3/4" - the vein doesn't extend clear to the edge of this mold so
     you can make smaller leaves fine too. Nice veins. Set: $5.00
     * Hibiscus Petal Veiners-3 sizes in a set: 1 1/2", 1 3/4", 2 1/4" Set: $5.00
     * Holly Oak Veiners- 3 sizes: 1 1/2", 1 3/4", 2" SET: $5.00
     * Chrysanthemum Veiners-2 sizes: 1", 1 3/4" $5.00
     * Orchid Veiners-3 sizes: 1 1/4", 1 3/4", 2 1/2" SET: $5.00

     BY Nicholas Lodge ('The' expert!:
     Set of 4, 2 1/2"- 3" but can easily be used for smaller flowers too. It doesn't say what types of flowers these   leaves represent, but it is a good variety...rose is one: SET $10.00
     Dolores at http://w3.one.net/~proicer/index.html (proicer@one.net)

Author: Julie
     Subject: Spider Cake
     Date: Mon Oct 27 19:20:41 1997

     Message:
     Help! Months ago on someones web page there was a spider cake filled with jello (made with the wonder pan -     when cut it oozed). I mentioned it to a friend and now she wants it for Halloween. But now I can't find it! My     computer has crashed and I lost all my bookmarks. Does anyone remember it?

Author: Jill
     Subject: spider cake
     Date: Tue Oct 28 16:45:06 1997

     Message:

     Yes--it is on the B. Keith Ryder page. It is in the links on this page.

Author: Cathy
     Subject: hard candy
     Date: Mon Oct 27 15:02:38 1997

     Message:

     I started out with making lolipops last Christmas & Valentine's Day and was really pleased with the result. I'd     really like to branch out into something like lemon drops or cherry sours and especially old fashion meltaway     peppermints but can't find and books or recipes. I've checked the local bookstores and library. Anyone have     suggestions?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: candies
     Date: Tue Oct 28 03:11:01 1997

     Message:

     Hi Cathy, Try the recipes on my web site...guess you have the url, but: http://w3.one.net/~proicer/index.html
     Just in case. Look on RECIPES, then choose CANDIES. Other than this, we do have a candy recipe book I    wrote with more.     I love hard candy...when you get bored, experiment with shaping it. Fun!

Author: Jill
     Subject: help with fondant
     Date: Mon Oct 27 08:17:24 1997

     Message:

     I made a 3D ghost cake out of the Cake Decorators Bible. It was my first time working with fondant, so I just     bought Wiltons ready made. You were supposed to roll out the fondant and drape it over the ghost. When I did,   the fondant cracked and separated and eventually slid down the cake. Any ideas as to what went wrong??

Author: Ruth
     Subject: help with fondant
     Date: Wed Oct 29 06:36:42 1997

     Message:

     To prevent cracking while working with fondant I use Crisco. I rub some on my hands and if the fondant seems a   little dry I mix some Crisco into the fondant. Cracks are usually because the fondant is dry.

Author: shirleyjeanne
     Subject: fondant
     Date: Mon Oct 27 09:01:33 1997

     Message:

     Two key questions would be how thinnly did you roll the fondant, and what did you use as a base coat on the    cake first. Fondant has to have something to cling to, so some sort of 'glue' needs to be on the cake. Strained jam,    buttercream, something like that to give it a base. If the fondant became too dry as you were working with it could    have caused it to crack, or having it too thick could too. Hope these hints might be of help. Don't give up on the   fondant, it's a beautiful cake covering.

Author: T. Leech
     Subject: Eating wedding cakes
     Date: Sun Oct 26 23:28:12 1997

     Message:

     Is it just me who thinks this, or is it true? I think that a wedding cake is more for viewing then it is for eating so,    therefor is it okay to assume that the cake's appearance is a lttle bit more important than the taste itself?    Any response is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Author: Earlene
     Subject: Tasty Cake
     Date: Sat Nov 8 21:29:25 1997

     Message:

     My first priority is that the customer will have a wonderfully, tasty, moist, good flavored cake. The decorating is     totally secondary. They have wasted their money if their guests don't eat and enjoy the cake. I have a customer     who organizes luncheons and etc. at the women's club here. When it came time to order her daughters wedding     cake this was what she told me. "I always see what comes back to the kitchen and is thrown away. When one of     your cakes is served here the plates come back clean - we don't have any of your cakes to throw away."      Now tell me if taste is important. Of course the best reputation you can have is that the cakes taste wonderful and     look wonderful. But you must work hard to achieve that reputation. One bad, dry, non-eaten cake will wipe out a     lot of years of hard work and lower your reputation.

Author: Shannon
     Subject: eating wedding cakes
     Date: Wed Oct 29 10:34:57 1997

     Message:

     Taste is VERY important. I agree with Mickey. A great looking and great tasting cake is what separates the run     of the mill cake from a cake that is really going to be remembered. Honestly, there really is no EXCUSE for     having a bad tasting cake. Even if someone dosen't have a recipe for the perfect cake there are mixes out there     that work great. When I use cake mix I use Duncan Hines. (I would say from my experience that 80-90% of cake     decorators who USE cake mix use Duncan Hines)
     I rather enjoy going to a wedding and eating a bad tasting cake. That means more business for me. :)
     Shannon

Author: Nancy Burden
     Subject: Eating Wedding Cake
     Date: Tue Oct 28 07:39:43 1997

     Message:

     I definitely think that the taste of a wedding cake is very important, just as important as the appearance. At many     weddings the cakes are very much a part of the meal, served at the reception as the dessert. The bride's cake     appearance and taste is long remembered and rated by the quest as very good, moist and flavorful or the worst     they've ever tasted. It does reflect on the person that made the cake too, bad cakes no matter how beautiful, will     not get referrals.

Author: shirleyjeanne
     Subject: eating wedding cake
     Date: Wed Oct 29 06:01:18 1997

     Message:
     Amen, Nancy. Now if we could convince folks that price is not the be all, end all, to choosing a cake.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: gp flowers
     Date: Tue Oct 28 03:15:23 1997

     Message:
     As Mickey said...not toxic. This is a food just like any other. They dry so hard you may not want to eat them. But    are a nice memento to keep anyhow.
     Wires: Sometimes, especially on commercial cakes you see in magazines, you may not need to use wires. I don't    like to either. But the flowers are usually kept anyway...Tulle and ribbons would also not be too good to eat :)     But this is SUCH a fun thing!

Author: mickey
     Subject: tasty cakes
     Date: Mon Oct 27 08:54:55 1997

     Message:

     Please make your cake as good and tasty as you possibly can!
     The goal is to have a beautifully decorated and marvelous tasting cake, all at the same time. This, as far as I'm    concerned, is a major separating point between a truly custom, professionally executed job, and a run of the mill,     average production line product. Set yourself apart from the crowd, proudly!

Author: T. Leech
     Subject: Are gum paste flowers toxic as a cake decoration?
     Date: Sun Oct 26 23:06:39 1997

     Message:
     I was planning to make gum paste flowers in advance so that I can decorate my cake. Is it toxic to the cake at all?
     It's going to be plain white, no coloring added to it except for edible gold powder. I used Wilton's gum paste    recipe.     Any response is greatly appreciated.Thanks.

Author: JT
     Subject: re;not toxic gumpaste
     Date: Wed Oct 29 16:23:08 1997

     Message:

     No worry about the gumpaste, be alert about the florist tape.some of the tapes(florist are toxic) check on it and     make sure your gold is the proper gold. no iron in it some on the market has iron in the gold.. do not allow the     guest to eat the gold. it is not recomended in the US by the fda to consume. we can only us the gold as a decrative     accent, Martha,S dose alot with it but dosn't tell the real part as exsplained above. If you see the gold and silver     dragees(little balls) we got on x-mas cookie even say not for consuming only decrative use only.

Author: mickey
     Subject: gumpaste flowers
     Date: Mon Oct 27 08:47:32 1997

     Message:

     Gum paste is not toxic, only problem could be any wire you might use to assemble them with. That of course    would not be exactly tasty or very good for one's well being. They aren't the best tasting things in the world, but    they won't hurt you.

Author: T.Leech
     Subject: A combination cake
     Date: Sun Oct 26 23:00:56 1997

     Message:

     I was wondering if I was to make my wedding cake with fondant, marzipan, buttercream icing(filing), with a    pound cake as the cake part. I'd like it to be butter flavoured all the way through where possible. Do you think   that this is a good combination? Any suggestions? I'd like to stick to the fondant though.
     Any feedback is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: ideas
     Date: Tue Oct 28 03:19:01 1997

     Message:

     Yes, this would work. For 'butter' flavors...Use a butter cake. And butter icing too maybe. (Make sure the icing   isn't so yellow that it shows through the fondant though. I don't like using much buttercream icing on the outsides   of the cake. I like to use a strained apricot perserves or something. Its stickier...thats what you need. Only don't   use so much that it gets slippery.

Author: jeff blackley
     Subject: more ideas
     Date: Wed Oct 29 07:27:26 1997

     Message:

     I think if you used a merange (please forgive my bad spelling) buttercream,it will be almost solid white, allowing a   rich butter flavor .

Author: Patricia
     Subject: whipped cream icing?
     Date: Sun Oct 26 09:25:56 1997

     Message:

     A friend bought a cake from a bakery that had whipped cream icing. It was firm enough to do everything    buttercream can do and it tasted great. Can anyone give me a recipe for this type of icing? Thanks

Author: Joe
     Subject: whipped frosting
     Date: Wed Oct 29 16:54:07 1997

     Message:

     there are three that I know of deloris had the one Riches Better Creme, there also is Ice-n-fill also frozen Dairy    Queen uses this product plus Bakers Choice made by Insty whip. each of the above product are whip cream taste    but also they are non-dairy. when using them and you want to make flowers you can only get a light color shade    out of them. You won't be able to get royal blue or red red. just lighter shades of them. each of these items can    stay out of a refidge for up to 3 days with out harm. and making roses with it is as easy as buttercreme, I been    using Ice-n-Fil for 5 yrs and will continue using it . I also make my filling with it. and it olso makes great cheese  cake.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: icing
     Date: Sun Oct 26 16:20:38 1997

     Message:

     As Nancy said, This is probably BETTERCREME. Comes frozen as she said. There is another brand called    PASTRY PRIDE. Depends on where you live. We carry this in our supply shop but many may not. It is available    in a bakery supply near you I bet.

Author: Nancy Floyd
     Subject: whipcream icing
     Date: Sun Oct 26 13:57:22 1997

     Message:

     I buy Bettercream, it comes in a quart carton the same as milk. I buy it at Gordons Food Serve. Keep it in the    freezer until you are ready, then you beat until the right consistency.

Author: shirleyjeanne
     Subject: 4 responses
     Date: Mon Oct 27 14:09:00 1997

     Message:
     Sorry, I didn`t think the response had gone out, my computer was giving me error messages.

Author: shirleyjeanne
     Subject: icing
     Date: Mon Oct 27 13:51:18 1997

     Message:

     The recipe that I use is 2 lb. 10x sugar, 1/4 c. margine, 1 1/3 c. white shortening, 1/2 c. water (or enough to get    the consistency that you need), 1 tsp. flavoring of choice, & about 1/4 tsp. salt. Whip it up all together. Beats any    icing that I have tasted from a bakery. My customers love it. In fact, that icing and my homemade, from scratch,    cakes are what my customers demand!

Author: Shannon
     Subject: Kennedy cake
     Date: Sat Oct 25 20:04:35 1997

     Message:

     I have been trying for the longest time to find a detailed picture of Jackie and John F. Kennedy's wedding cake.    There are pictures of them standing by the cake but none of them are close enough to show any detail. Does    anyone know of any books that show it in detail or does anyone happen to know the design used?    Thanks,     Shannon

Author: Brenda
     Subject: Gingerbread Patterns
     Date: Sat Oct 25 19:38:43 1997

     Message:

     I'm looking for sources of more complex patterns for gingerbread structures. Simple rectangular houses are easy    to find. What about mansions, castles and spires. If anyone has any sources to share please do. I'm trying to avoid    designing my own!

Author: Sheila
     Subject: complex gingerbread houses
     Date: Sun Oct 26 14:51:38 1997

     Message:

     Look up old issues of Family Circle. They had contests for a while. I am not sure of the year. There were no   patterns, however.
 
 

Author: Dolores
     Subject: GB patterns
     Date: Sun Oct 26 16:23:15 1997

     Message:

     Yes Sheila, that is a super idea. I have a BIG notebook full of old patterns. We DO carry several GB books too.   This is a good way to get going. Once you do a couple, you will see that it is easy to create.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: gb houses
     Date: Sun Oct 26 06:28:09 1997

     Message:

     I made myself a complex patter once...for a 2-story house with porch etc. I really didn't know until I started to   try, whether it would work. But it did.
     If your walls and roof 'fit' everything else will.
     TIP: Before baking the 'walls' fill with crushed hard candy (like sour balls, etc) crushed. They will melt into
     wonderful 'windows' - then cut a small hole in the cardboard the house will sit on and add a light. Beautiful!
     Next thing I'd like to do is add furnishings to the 'inside'

Author: mickey
     Subject: gingerbread patterns
     Date: Sun Oct 26 04:57:22 1997

     Message:

     Ah, does your request sound familiar. Shirleyjeanne and I have had pretty good luck at miniature and/or doll     house shops. There are books, patterns, kits, etc that can be of use. Have you seen those 3 diminsional puzzles...if     you have the time and nerves to put one of them together, then use it for a pattern. Some of the older decorating     books have some patterns in them too.

Author: Bruce Lam
     Subject: Decorator Gel recipe
     Date: Sat Oct 25 19:22:37 1997

     Message:

     I'm supposed to be creating over 200 Witch's Finger Cookies for a Halloween Bake Sale. However, the recipe     calls for Red Decorator Gel. Does anyone have a recipe for Decorator Gel? I'm trying to do bake sale at the     lowest ingredient cost possible.     Thanks.

Author: shirleyjeanne
     Subject: piping gel
     Date: Sun Oct 26 05:12:38 1997

     Message:

     You might want to try this recipe:
     1 envelope Knox unflavored gelatin
     1 tbsp water=thick gel, 2 tbsp water=thin, soft gel
     1/2 cup light corn syrup
     Dissolve gelatin in water over very low heat. remove from heat and stir in corn syrup, blend in well. Place in air   tight container and allow to thicken. This can be colored and flavored as you like.

Author: Brenda
     Subject: Gel...
     Date: Sat Oct 25 19:43:13 1997

     Message:

     Are you looking for piping gel? I would buy it pre made at a cake decorators supply store, or contact Sugarcraft   from Dolores' Web Page.

Author: kavita
     Subject: flower decoration
     Date: Sat Oct 25 10:04:03 1997

     Message:

     IT IS MY FIRST BORNS FIRST B'DAY.I WANT TO MAKE A VERY SPECIAL CAKE FOR HER. I
     WANT TO DECORATE THE CAKE WITH LOTS OF FLOWERS. I HAVE NEVER DONE FLOWER
     DECORATIONS. CAN ANYBODY PLEASE HELP ME WITH THIS? I WOULD LIKE TO TO KNOW
     THE RECIPE AND THE METHOD. THANK YOU.

Author: shirleyjeanne
     Subject: flowers
     Date: Sun Oct 26 05:23:28 1997

     Message:

     Kavita, how long do you have before your little ones birthday? It sounds like drop flowers, lots of them, different     colors, sizes, and such, might be the way to go for her cake. Go to the library or buy a beginner book at a cake     shop. Ask, plead, beg for help at a cake supply shop.

Author: Mary Rogal
     Subject: Newsletters
     Date: Thu Oct 23 19:07:46 1997

     Message:

     I too, have just learned how to download you fantastic newsletters, and now there are so many gone, gone,     gone!! Any way to obtain at least the Oct, Nov. Dec. ones from 96?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re newsletters
     Date: Fri Oct 24 11:11:43 1997

     Message:

     Hi Mary,

     I can zip them up together and send them email...give me your email address (with this request so I'll know).
     I had to delete those because I was out of space....my server only allows me 25MB LOL     Dolores

Author: Oleta Edwards
     Subject: your missing newsletters
     Date: Thu Oct 30 05:01:14 1997

     Message:

     Delores, would you be a dear and zip them to me too please. I just found out how to download your newsletters    from March 97 on, on any previous to that would be great. TIA     Oleta

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: old newsletters
     Date: Fri Oct 31 09:02:41 1997

     Message:

     Please email me your email address. Realize this will take a LONG time to download, so I'll just send one per     email. Still, they take 10-20 minutes...I'm tryying to get better on that. I can CC someone else, let me know so I     can doo this all at once please...Dolores at proicer@one.net

Author: Jeannine
     Subject: old newslettes
     Date: Sun Nov 2 10:27:24 1997

     Message:

     Dolores, please email me the old newsletters too. I'm so excited that you're going to mail them out!! This
     computer stuff confuses me. Thanks again!

Author: Oleta Edwards
     Subject: download of newsletter
     Date: Fri Oct 31 09:43:02 1997

     Message:

     Delores, If too much trouble to send me your old newsletters, don't worry about it.
     I have 2 emails muloedwa@showme.missouri.edu
     and CakeWmn@aol.com

     I had to miss the chat lastnight so will have to copy when you get on your webpage. Really enjoy the chat but am    used to how fast it goes and then I get on other chats and they just drag. Keep up the good work. Oleta Edwards

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: newsletter
     Date: Sat Nov 1 11:22:15 1997

     Message:
     Hi Oleta
     I've recently decided to mail the newsletter for $12.50 per year. You can send check or charge to:
     Dolores McCann
     1143 S. Erie Blvd.
     Hamilton, OH 45011
     Mark it re: newsletter or something so I'll know what you are sending for please. Dolores

Author: Mary Rogal
     Subject: newsletters
     Date: Sun Oct 26 16:54:38 1997

     Message:
     Thanks Dolores. My E-mail is rogal@ptd.net. I appreciate your help and look forward to downloading all the     great information on your newsletters!!!

Author: Barb
     Subject: looking for pan liners
     Date: Thu Oct 23 15:43:30 1997

     Message:

     I am looking for a source to purchase precut round pan liners. I can only find 6 & 8" and would like to get 10, 12    & 14. Thanks! Barb

Author: JOE
     Subject: re.panliners
     Date: Thu Oct 23 20:39:17 1997

     Message:

     you can get pan liners up to 18 round and sheet cake liners also at SWEET CELEBRATION(dba Maid of
     Scandinavia) call 1800-328-6722 call during the day. these are the people you can talk to and get a good lead on    what you need, because in the evening that is leased out company and is not all in the know about the products.    good luck

Author: Dora
     Subject: Alpine Shortening
     Date: Thu Oct 23 13:59:35 1997

     Message:

     I just made my first batch of icing with the Alpine Shortening, I used 3/4 cup to 2lb. of confectioners sugar. I had     to add quite a bit more water than my recipe calls for because it was very stiff. After adding additional water it     was very creamy but I found it would not "crust" so I could use the parchment method of smoothing my cake.
     Any suggestions? If anyone has a great recipe using Alpine Shortening I would really appreciate it.
     Thank you     Dora

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: alpine
     Date: Thu Oct 23 15:38:01 1997

     Message:

     I expect you also found that your icing was 'softer' - this always tastes better I think. My icing does crust to paper    towel it. Since you could incorporate more water I think it is just taking longer.

Author: Brenda
     Subject: Alpine vs Sweetex
     Date: Sat Oct 25 19:48:37 1997

     Message:
     Is Sweetex similar to Alpine for softness of icing or is there a difference?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: shortening
     Date: Sun Oct 26 06:32:09 1997

     Message:
     Yes, the same - sort of. They are different brands. Like most foods, we'll prefer one to the other. I like Alpine    better because it allows me to add more water, making a softer, more palatable icing.

Author: Mindy
     Subject: candy coatings
     Date: Wed Oct 22 11:36:15 1997

     Message:

     Could anyone tell me what the difference is in the taste of the chocolate wafers compared to a Hershey candy bar.    I've never tried the wafers. I've always used vanilla almond bark candy coating and mixed it with Baker's baking    chocolate until it gets to the right taste. There is quite a difference in the cost between the candy wafers and the    almond bark and baking chocolate. I didn't know if it would be worth the difference in the cost. Thanks for any    help. Mindy

Author: JT
     Subject: candy coating
     Date: Thu Oct 23 20:49:40 1997

     Message:

     it is what is the ingrediant, coating contains palm kernal oil so it dose not have to be temperd any one alergic to    choc can eat this also. when trying coating it dose not melt as fast as real chocolate. Because real chocolate has    coco butter. that is when you have to temper to release the coco butter. taste is way diffrent also hershey candy    bars are real chocolate and is a low grade. to tell the diffrence let choc melt on the tip of tunge and check for a    satin smooth non gritty feel,. also with coating should be smooth the stuff in the supper markets is bad quality try    seeing if a candy supplyer by you may sell you some. there are many brands of coating out there,   NESTLE,WILBER,GUTARD,MERKINS,GOSSEMERS,ECT. PETERS(wich is nestle but a grade better.)

Author: shirleyjeanne
     Subject: candy coating
     Date: Thu Oct 23 12:22:32 1997

     Message:
     The difference in the coatings amd a Hershey bar is one is pure chocolate and the other isn't. You can use pure    chocolate for molding and such, but it has to be tempered properly and handled correctly for it to be a success.     Just as there are different quality coatings, there are also different quality chocolate. Comes down to cost,   availability, personal taste, 'friendliness' of a product, end product desired.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Re: candy
     Date: Thu Oct 23 07:32:06 1997

     Message:

     MOST chocolates have a different taste...thats why we can have more than one brand. SO, what you would look   for is a flavor you like, smooth (not grainy like some), NOT waxy- like some...etc. We carry Merckens coating    chocolate. Our customers demand this brand. It takes more abuse than any ohter...of melting/re-melting, getting    over-heated etc. I prefer it as to flavor - by far.

     The next best is Nestle's, but Merckens chocolate abd semi-sweet flavor has it all over any ohter brand. Nestle's    white chocolate coatings are okay. One I don't personnaly like is Wilton's. Besides, they kinda fool you by selling    it in 10 oz pkgs instead of by the pound. Expensive! Their formula has changed several times and is no longer as   waxy tasting as it use to be at least.

     Yes, difference in cost - and dif. in what it does. You can't use chocolate chips for putting in candy molds. And it   doesn't set up right unless you add wax (parafin)...or I think you can add shortening. Who needs that! I don't eat    candles!

Author: lynn
     Subject: fillings
     Date: Wed Oct 22 06:30:27 1997

     Message:

     My kids make decorated cakes for our 4h livestock show. We need a filling that has no milk products; milk,    cream, whip cream, ect.... Our cakes this year are a chocolate and a chocolate peppermint so the fillings need to    be taste compatible.

Author: Debi
     Subject: Re: Filling
     Date: Wed Oct 22 10:24:46 1997

     Message:
     Have you tried a rasberry preserve? I have found that rasberries are always great with chocolate.

Author: lynn
     Subject: fillings
     Date: Thu Oct 23 07:23:05 1997

     Message:

     thanks raspberries and chocolate sound great. More info. though: do we need to mix the preserves with anything    or just use them right out of the jar.

Author: Kennette Brueggeman
     Subject: fillings
     Date: Thu Oct 23 13:02:28 1997

     Message:
     I've done chocolate cake with rasberry preserves as a filling. I also sprinkled some rasberry schnapps on the   cooled cake. It was ooh so scrumptous.
 
 

Author: Thalia
     Subject: edible HANGING wreath
     Date: Wed Oct 22 05:12:37 1997

     Message:

     We are having a contest at work to make hanging wreaths with a fall /harvest/thanksgiving theme. Those
     submitted thus far are gorgeous dry flower or home sewing arrangements.
     I hope to use sugar craft. Does anyone have any ideas? So far all I've come up with is decorated indian
     -pilgrim-pumpkin-turkey cookies. These wreaths will hang on doors that are used continuously. Thanks for any     help.

Author: Mara T Lee
     Subject: RE: Edible wreath
     Date: Mon Oct 27 12:00:44 1997

     Message:

     Hi,
     How about using salt dough to model your thanksgiving wreath from?---it resembles baked bread and you can     schellac it to preserve it.---salt dough is a simple rec. if you would like it , I'm sure I could find it or maybe even     Dolores might have a couple of rec.

Author: Shannon
     Subject: edible wreath
     Date: Sat Oct 25 19:49:59 1997

     Message:

     Hi!
     I was looking at a magazine today and it made me think about the message you posted. There was a wreath in the     magazine made oud of hard candy in the wrappers. The kind of candies that they used were those strawberry     candies that are wrapped up in papers to look like strawberries. It was really pretty. You could use any type. It     might look nice if you could find some type of candy wrapped in green wrappers and a few in red to make it look     like a holly wreath. I guess you would just get a styrofoam weath form and pin the candies on with straight pins or     hot glue them on. Hope this helps. :)     Shannon

Author: Debi
     Subject: Painting w/Icing
     Date: Tue Oct 21 14:47:43 1997

     Message:

     I was talking with someone from Arkansas today who stated that he knew of someone who "Painted" the icing     onto cakes.
     Has anyone else ever heard of this? He stated that she did this in layers like paint on a canvas. And if you have    could someone explain it to me please. This realy sounds interesting.

Author: Vi E.
     Subject: Painting With Icing
     Date: Wed Nov 19 21:32:28 1997

     Message:

     I have been "painting with icing" on my cakes for years for customers who had more complicated requests of     family members who wanted to have a cake reflect the outdoor hobby of the recipient. As in my paintings, the     farthest thing away is done first, and layers are built on that. I do even have photos of my style of painting with     icing in stages, if you would like to see them. I have a scanner. For example, a sunset scene of a fisherman in his     boat. So the whole top of the cake would be thinly iced & smoothed in various shades of orange & yellow, taking     into consideration where the horizon would be. Then the background mountains would be freely piped on that     horizon (just cut the end of the parchment bag), remember the reflections of the mountains in the water, since the     sunset is behind the mountains, and lightly smoothed the mountains with a small spatula. Then in the area of the     water, a dark boat, with a dark fisherman (because we are seeing the shadow side of them, with the sunset behind     them) wearing his fishing vest, with a pole & line in the water is figure piped. Next, the foreground with tall dark     grasses are added using a cut leaf tip. And lastly, besides doing borders to finish off the cake, I create fishing flies   out of royal