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 icing, using pages of lures from a well-known supplier of fishing gear as examples. As you can see, art    is my real love.....

Author: Dolores
     Subject: painting with icing
     Date: Wed Oct 22 04:11:54 1997

     Message:

     Yes, I've done this. In fact I have the directions and a BIG photo right on my web site so you can see it.
     http://w3.one.net/~proicer/index.html     Go to SPECIAL TECHNIQUES then to PAINTING WITH ICING.
     You'll want the icing to be rather thin...get creative and you can do it just like an artist...mixing/combining colors,     etc. Dolores

Author: mickey
     Subject: icing
     Date: Mon Oct 20 18:07:34 1997

     Message:
     How about another icing recipe. My favorite 'all purpose' is 2# 10X, 1 c. shortening, 1/2 c. margarine, 1/2 c. +-     water, vanilla and just a drop of butterscotch flavoring. The butterscotch adds that can't quite put your finger on it     touch.
     Might some of the color problems, especially with those intense colors mentioned, just be not mixing them in    thoroughly?

Author: Lisa
     Subject: Mocha Spoons
     Date: Mon Oct 20 11:46:58 1997

     Message:
     Has anyone made those mocha spoons Dolores has on her web site? I thought they would make an excellent     holiday gift for the "hi-browed" people my husband works for =:}}. It looks like they would really appeal to the     gourmet type community I live it. My question though is, about how many spoons do you get out of a 1 pound     bag of chocolate? Just trying to figure out how much to order so I won't run out. Thanks.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: spoons
     Date: Wed Oct 22 04:14:46 1997

     Message:

     I really can't tell you how many spoons you get. But when we want to try and 'guesstimate' we fill a mold with     water and weigh it with the water in it. I agree, these spoons are impressive - and popular with the gourmet     crowd. Make them dif. flavors for added interest.

Author: Millie
     Subject: Wilton Yearbooks
     Date: Mon Oct 20 09:17:56 1997

     Message:
     Does anyone have any old yearbooks for sale?
     Specifically Wilton 95, 92, 91 & 90. Let me know.
     Thanks

Author: Lynne
     Subject: old yearbooks
     Date: Sun Nov 23 12:10:59 1997

     Message:
     Are you still interested in old yearbooks?
     I have many, going back to the '70's that I am willing to sell.
     Contact me via e-mail:
     kakeladi@mindinfo.com (be sure to use all lower case letters.)
     Lynne

Author: Joe
     Subject: old year books
     Date: Tue Oct 21 15:53:01 1997

     Message:

     the only place(s) I know would be one of these choice ideas. 1. always check garage sales 2. I have seen them at     flea markets and antique dealers, 3. the last and best place is Teegardens located in Nap WI 1-715-235-7476    she carrys every piece of wilton from way back when. I had found them as late as 70s check her out you won't be     disapointed.

Author: Karla Knight
     Subject: Icing - color separated
     Date: Mon Oct 20 07:25:12 1997

     Message:

     A friend of mine at work made a cake last week and the icing colors "separated" <-- best description I can think     of. i.e., instead of bright orange, she ended up with orange and white swirls....and instead of black, black and grey     swirls. Was a pretty cool effect since it was for a halloween cake, but not what she was after.
     The only thing I could think of that caused this is that she used an "on sale" brand of shortening (not Crisco). Any     other ideas? Thanks!

Author: Lisa
     Subject: Icing Colors Separating
     Date: Mon Oct 20 11:38:49 1997

     Message:
     Well I have been battling that very problem for awhile now. In talking to the experts (FL ICES rep and Dolores in     particular), this is what I have learned. FIrst, never use the generic shortening. Always Crisco or another high ratio     shortening like Sweetex or Alpine. Next, not too much water in the icing to thin it down. Add a little corn syrup a     teaspoon at a time. Also, switch from plastic bags to parchment so they don't retain the heat from your hands     (which I think is the main problem). There is a whole list of ideas on how to handle hot ideas at the beginning of     the message board including keeping a bowl of ice water nearby for your hands, and I think that helps me alot.     Good luck

Author: Brenda
     Subject: icing
     Date: Sun Oct 19 14:43:42 1997

     Message:

     My buttercream roses and borders shrink after sitting overnight, am I over-beating my icing? Appreciate any help.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: icing
     Date: Mon Oct 20 04:56:42 1997

     Message:

     Tell us what your icing recipe is so we can help you please?

Author: Brenda
     Subject: icing
     Date: Mon Oct 20 10:04:17 1997

     Message:

     My icing recipe is: 1 1/2 cups Crisco, 1 stick marg. 2# 10X sugar, more or less. Milk, vanilla, and a little butter    flavoring.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Re: icing
     Date: Wed Oct 22 04:18:53 1997

     Message:

     Most icings contain:
     1 cup shortening (or a little more) TO
     2 lbs p.sugar.
     Flavors, water or milk
     The butter can definately cause you problems. Since butter will change consistency just setting out of the fridge,   when it softens it changes the icing consistency. I don't use butter when I want accuracy.
     The icing you discribed has so much grease in it that it won't hardly crust over at all. You need it to crust so colors   won't run/bleed etc.

Author: Pat
     Subject: cake frosting
     Date: Sun Oct 19 12:45:12 1997

     Message:
     I recently saw a picture of a white chocolate covered wedding cake that looked as smooth as rolled fondant, but I     understand not as "chewy". Would anyone have a recipe for this type of frosting? Love this site!

Author: Dolores
     Subject: icing
     Date: Mon Oct 20 04:58:04 1997

     Message:

     That new choc - white choc icing we can buy ready-made is called CHOCO-PAN

Author: Lisa
     Subject: ChocoPan
     Date: Mon Oct 20 11:42:01 1997

     Message:

     I know a few people who have tried this and absolutely love it. I didn't have such good luck with it during the     summer here in Florida. It was extremely soft and difficult to manuever (might be my "hot hands" getting in the way     again). I love white chocolate, but it didn't really taste that way to me, but everyone is different - you might love it     too.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: icing
     Date: Sun Oct 19 17:58:22 1997

     Message:

     I HAD a recipe for this...by Mildred Brand of Ft Wayne IN. But have no idea where it is now. Mickey...if you    have it??? Also, there is a new ready-made icing like this. Though it is very expensive.

Author: MARGARET
     Subject: COLOR-FLOW
     Date: Sat Oct 18 20:31:54 1997

     Message:

     I MIXED THE COLOR FLOW AS DIRECTED, BUT IT WAS TOO THICK TO
     FLOW! any help??? THANKS! MARGARET

Author: mickey
     Subject: color flow
     Date: Sun Oct 19 08:24:37 1997

     Message:

     Add more water, a tad at the time, til it will behave as desired. Or you can use a little egg white to thin it to the     consistency you need. Again, just a bit at the time. Egg white will make the resulting item, picture, plaque or     whatever a little stronger than using water.

Author: Sherry
     Subject: Cake Bible
     Date: Sat Oct 18 16:40:51 1997

     Message:

     Hi!
     I've heard some good things about the book "The Cake Bible," by Rose Levy Bernbaum (sp?) and was
     wondering if any of you own this book? Do you have any comments? Would you recommend it?
     Thank you!     Sherry

Author: Debi
     Subject: Cake Bible
     Date: Sun Oct 19 10:41:35 1997

     Message:
     I love my "Cake Bible". Though I do need a bigger mixer to try the recipes that I want. I have only a 4 1/2 quart    mixer and she recommeds at least a 5 quart.

Author: mickey
     Subject: the cake bible
     Date: Sat Oct 18 18:59:29 1997

     Message:

     The Cake Bible is a good, good book. Lots of definitions, explanations along with the recipes. Not perfect (if it    were it would have a calorieless fudge cake recipe) but none of us are either, but all in all, if I were you I'd buy it.    My copy definitely shows use!

Author: Dereick Rushton
     Subject: Victorian Cake Books
     Date: Sat Oct 18 14:05:42 1997

     Message:
     I am a chef in the British Army, but have a great deal of interest in Victorian Royal Iced Wedding cakes...
     Can anybody suggest any books that are available which show this subject in greater detail??
     Im also looking for a book on the history of the wedding cake....what does it all mean

Author: JT
     Subject: victorian cakes
     Date: Thu Oct 23 20:58:20 1997

     Message:
     I would probly try a antique shop for the book your looking for. My friend is into victorian era style and had a     book with some very nice victorian wedding cakes in it but not alot. as to the where abouts on the book on how     wedding cakes began there possible may be one but most of what I have heard or even seen was bits and pieces     of where it all began in magazines, you may want to try the library.
     good luck in the search.

Author: Barb
     Subject: looking for pan liners
     Date: Fri Oct 17 18:40:31 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: JT
     Subject: panliners
     Date: Sun Oct 19 13:28:39 1997

     Message:
     I got the Phone # for Sweet Celebrations on pan liners in all sizes up to 16" I do beleave call 1-800-328-6722     I hope this will help you. Also ask for there catalog.

Author: Dolores    Subject: Re: circles
     Date: Sat Oct 18 05:08:20 1997

     Message:

     You might want to try at your local baker's supply warehouse. But they'll be sold in very large quantities. At    Sugarcraft we carry:
     8"/25 pc $2.79
     10" 15 pc $2.49 (only 3 pks left & discontinued)
     'select-a-size' (marked & you cut) 6" through 12" 20 pc $3.99
     See MAIL ORDER from my home page for ph#, hours and ordering, if you wish to do this.

Author: Felisha Harmon
     Subject: cake topper
     Date: Fri Oct 17 10:37:07 1997

     Message:

     Help! I'm desperately looking for a topper w/black bride and white groom. I'm running out of options. If you have     any ideas e-mail me at fharmon@descartes.coker.edu

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: br & gr
     Date: Wed Oct 22 04:22:56 1997

     Message:

     At Sugarcraft, we carry separate 'people for making the ornament you discribed...both black or white people. We     have ornament bases, the white flowers that arch above the couple, pearls etc...all you need is a glue gun.

Author: Felisha
     Subject: cake topper
     Date: Wed Oct 22 14:36:30 1997

     Message:
     Thanks! Where can I find a Sugarcraft?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: 'a' Sugarcraft
     Date: Thu Oct 23 07:41:12 1997

     Message:
     'Sugarcraft' happens to be the name of my shop. But there are many cake decorating supply shops - one or more     in a big city. They all carry the products to make ornaments.

     As far as our Sugarcraft shop goes, we are 20-30 min. above Cincinnati Ohio (USA) on Route 4 - in the small     city of Hamilton. For more info, check on my MAIL ORDER page.

Author: Nancy Burden
     Subject: Cake Topper
     Date: Fri Oct 17 13:23:37 1997

     Message:

     Felisha,
     You can buy a bride and groom separately and glue them to the base of a topper of your choice, or make the     whole thing from a purchased base add hearts, doves, flowers etc., the bride and groom. Glue them to the base     and wa la!
     Hope this helps, I've made them many times, simply because its cheaper and the bride and I often design it     according to what she wants on it.

Author: Felisha
     Subject: Cake Topper
     Date: Sun Oct 19 14:50:37 1997

     Message:
     Thanks, but the problem is I can't find the figurines seperately. The only ones I know of are the Precious Moments     and they're $40 a piece; a little out of my price range. Where can I find the bride and groom sold seperately?

Author: Nancy W. Burden
     Subject: Cake Topper
     Date: Mon Oct 20 05:40:59 1997

     Message:

     Try a Michael's, Hobby Lobby, or other craft stores should have them. I go to a local arts and craft store for cake     supplies, I find them there. If all else fails, there is always paint in flesh tones available.
     Nancy

Author: Charity Baker
     Subject: Cake Toppers
     Date: Tue Oct 21 15:04:02 1997

     Message:
     I would probably buy an unpainted bride and groom from a ceramic shop and either paint them myself (if you are     artisic in that area) or have someone paint them to my specifications.     Charity

Author: P. Leech
     Subject: Freezing wedding cakes
     Date: Thu Oct 16 20:24:21 1997

     Message:
     I was wondering if you were to freeze a wedding cake about a week ahead before the wedding date, would it still     look and taste just as good as the day you made it? It will have buttercream icing, marzipan, and fondant on top of     a pound cake. Or what other cake recipes can you recommend that will hold the fondant?     Thanks to anyone who will take the time to response.
 
 

Author: MaraTLee
     Subject: Re: Freezing cake w rolled fondant
     Date: Sat Oct 18 17:39:13 1997

     Message:

     Dear P.

     I have taken many classes with British decorators and none of them would ever dream of freezing a rolled fondant     cake. You are taking a big chance that the cake would not thaw and the frozen marzipan and rolled fondant would     be like a brick to cut. Many British decorators place the rolled fondant cake in a box ( to keep dust and vermin     out of the cake) and set aside on a cool counter top and take their time decorating the cake. As you can see their     work is quite intricate at times. Of course you can't do this if your buttercream icing is made with any eggs!--you     could use a little cooked and seived preserves or jelly as a glaze to hold the marzipan and fondant in place and     that would take care of that.     Mara

Author: Dolores
     Subject: freezing
     Date: Fri Oct 17 07:47:00 1997

     Message:

     You can freeze the cake - decorated etc. Just wrap it very well or seal it in a big garbage bag. The important part     is how you thaw...DO NOT open it until the cake returns to room temperature...colors run...sometimes colors run     anyway, but if you opened the cake frozen it will sweat...moisture leaving. It may take 12 or more hours for the     cake to return to room temp, depending upon how large it is and if there is a sep. plate on top of the cake.     Regardless of fresh or frozen, the cake will not taste different...if thawed properly

Author: mickey moore
     Subject: freezing cake
     Date: Fri Oct 17 16:22:11 1997

     Message:

     To help preserve the decorations on the cake, chill it well before you wrap it to freeze. That way you can wrap it     closely so it's air tight, but the trim is set well enough that it holds its shape. Or you could put it unwrapped in the     freezer for a short time to set it well also. Neither way would leave it unprotected long enough for it to pick up any     off taste or anything.

Author: mickey moore
     Subject: magazines
     Date: Thu Oct 16 14:38:16 1997

     Message:

     I believe MBN is still being printed. It was separated from the operation that was the Maid.
     Other magazines are available at a lot of local cake shops. They're from England and SA I believe. Or Australia.
     Are you an ICES member? The ICES newsletter always has how-to articles and pictures, along with other cake     abd candy related 'stuff'. We're absolutely the sweetest folks around!

Author: Dolores
     Subject: MBN - hi!
     Date: Thu Oct 16 16:03:20 1997

     Message:

     Hi Mickey,
     Are you 'the' Mickey Moore who works so hard in ICES? Its nice to have you on our Board. See you at ICES     next Aug!
     Yes, MBN is still in print. I get a thick copy (with cake pictures galore-for those who don't know) 6 times per   year. It is still the same. Very nice.     Dolores

Author: mickey moore
     Subject: MBN
     Date: Thu Oct 16 17:35:51 1997

     Message:

     Depemds on what 'the' ... yes, tis me. So glad you've got this area going. Sometimes it feels like some of us     frosting fanatics are out here all by our lonesome.

Author: Earlene Moore
     Subject: MBN
     Date: Thu Oct 23 07:41:20 1997

     Message:
     Hi mickie - glad you found this area. There are lots of us cake decorators out here in cyberspace. Glad to see you     here. Check out the AOL chat list here. Lots of good info there. Dolores is quiet a computer expert and thank     goodness she loves the sugar arts to and is teaching many of us some of the computer skills.
     Earlene

Author: Dolores
     Subject: hi
     Date: Fri Oct 17 07:43:34 1997

     Message:
     Hi Mickey,
     Me too - 'all by our lonesome' until computers and the web brought us together...love it!
     Nice to have an expert such as yourself giving decorating tips here...thanks so much...Dolores

Author: Sharon Meadows
     Subject: instructions
     Date: Thu Oct 16 11:35:18 1997

     Message:

     I would like to know if anyone has directions to the old "Cinderella's Castle" mold. I finally found the mold, but it     didn't come with directions. Thanks in advance for any help you can give.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: mold
     Date: Thu Oct 16 15:58:58 1997

     Message:

     Lay the pieces out and you may be able to see how they assemble.
     Press the sugar into the mold WELL. Unmold and let dry for 2 days or so.
     You'll use royal icing...a bit on the thin consistency - to glue it together.
     I don't know about the decorations, but that shouldn't be so hard.
     I bet there are pict.s in old wilton yearbooks of it.

Author: Shannon
     Subject: magazines
     Date: Thu Oct 16 08:41:19 1997

     Message:

     I have a subscription to American Cake Decorating magazine and love it. I was wondering if there were any other     cake decorating or sugarcraft magazines that I could subscribe to. Thanks, Shannon

Author: Jeannine    Subject: magazines
     Date: Thu Oct 16 08:53:06 1997

     Message:

     I'm not sure my first message submitted correctly...so here goes again. There's a magazine called Mailbox News     published by Maid of Scandinavia in Minnesota that's dedicated to cake decorating.

Author: Shannon
     Subject: magazines
     Date: Thu Oct 16 09:38:43 1997

     Message:

     THANKS! Do you subscribe to it? I have heard of Maid of Scandenavia but I don't have any of there products. I     have looked to see if they were on the web but haven't been able to find them. A woman told me recently that     they had went out of business or stopped mail order or something. Does anyone know anything about this?     Shannon

Author: mickey moore
     Subject: magazines
     Date: Thu Oct 16 14:28:36 1997

     Message:

     The Mail Box News is back in publication, and is a subscription...at least I hope they're still operating..MBN was     separated from the former Maid operation. I'll see how quickly I can find an address for you     There are several other decorating magazines available by subscription or at cake supply shops. They are from     England and S.A. I believe. ICES monthly newsletter always has how tos and pictures among other articles (all  cake and candy related).      Check out ICES

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: magazines - ices
     Date: Mon Oct 20 05:06:09 1997

     Message:

     Here is ices URL...check out the cakes under NEWSLETTERS!
     http://www.ices.org

Author: Shannon
     Subject: magazines
     Date: Thu Oct 16 21:15:33 1997

     Message:

     Thank's for the onfo. I just sent in my membership dues for ICES about three days ago. I can't wait to hear from   them.

Author: T. Leech
     Subject: Edible gold powder
     Date: Wed Oct 15 23:53:44 1997

     Message:
     I've been trying to find edible gold powder to decorate my wedding cake, but have been unsuccessful. Can you    please tell me of places where I can buy some that will ship it to me?

Author: joe
     Subject: gold powder
     Date: Sun Oct 19 13:24:29 1997

     Message:

     when using the cold powder make sure there is no iron in it remember the FDA dose not allow this yet in amreica.   all though it is very popular in england and else where. I asked at I.C.E.S if they had there gold which is the best  of all golds but do to the FDA they can not bring it to USA   if looking for some try Sweet Celebration located in MN     1-800-328-6722 it is edible but not recomended like all other gold products sold in the USA. they should all be     non-toxic. good luck

Author: Sherry
     Subject: gold powder
     Date: Thu Oct 16 09:44:46 1997

     Message:

     New York Cake & Baking Distributor
     56 W. 22nd St.
     NY, NY 10010
     1-800-94-CAKE9
     Fax (212) 675-7099

     Send for a catalog ($3) Edible gold leaf, powder, and just about everything there is in the world having to do with    cakes, baking, decorating, and candymaking is in this catalog. Look for the gold items on catalog page number    148. I just got my catalog last week. This is an excellent resource, and prices are competitive, although the    photographs won't win any awards.     Sherry

Author: Dolores
     Subject: gold p.
     Date: Thu Oct 16 06:32:13 1997

     Message:
     I just answered an email about this. If you are the same person, disregard...but we do carry this (also silver). You     can find all info for ordering it on my web site under MAIL ORDER. It is $3.99 plus shipping.

Author: Sherry
     Subject: Gold powder/mail order
     Date: Thu Oct 16 09:46:55 1997

     Message:

     Sorry Delores! I didn't know about all the stuff you carry...am new here. :) How can I obtain a catalog of your     supplies and prices?     Thanks,     Sherry

Author: Dolores
     Subject: gold
     Date: Thu Oct 16 16:06:51 1997

     Message:

     No prob. Sherry..if I was any busier I could never come here to have fun :) We don't have a catalog - yet. Need     one desperately. Trying to at least get a list of our products online for you.

Author: mariel
     Subject: thanks from argentina
     Date: Wed Oct 15 17:09:49 1997

     Message:
     i would like to thank you all for the hours of fun reading all these chats, hints and recipies. i just open up a shop of     bakers supplies and what interest me most of it is how much i can learn every day. i save and print all the tips i can     get my hands on. thanks again, sincerelly.
     escuse my English... better speaking than kriting...
     mariel, from rosario, argentina

Author: Nancy Burden
     Subject: Bowling Cake
     Date: Wed Oct 15 13:22:10 1997

     Message:

     I am in the planning stages of doing a birthday cake for a little boy that's having a bowling party. Any ideas what     would reflect the bowling theme?     Thanks

Author: Larry
     Subject: bowling cake
     Date: Tue Nov 25 17:36:52 1997

     Message:

     You could use a 11 X 13 cake pan decorated like a bowling alley and use the Wilton mini ball pan to make two     half balls then put them together and decorate like a bowling ball and place it on the "Bowling Alley"

Author: Julie
     Subject: Bowling cake
     Date: Mon Oct 20 19:19:21 1997

     Message:

     It took me a while to come up with a bowling theme cake for a 10 year old too. I used a 9 x 13 put a small 1/2     ball done in black with a big smile a big eyes on an angle leaning toward two bowling pins (cut out of the small loaf     pan). The pins had big worried eyes and a squiggly mouth - they looked worried. Then made cookies shaped like     bowling pins (about 5 inch) with the same face.
     Just wanted to say this message board is great - I've noticed the AOL one is not used as much since.
     Thank you - hope this helps!!

Author: Melissa
     Subject: bowling cake
     Date: Thu Oct 16 09:30:14 1997

     Message:
     Wilton makes a ball pan that you can use to make a bowling ball - it will actually be a 3D round ball. You can also     use the pan later for a golf, baseball, or basketball cake.

Author: Jennifer
     Subject: shows/clubs in MD/DC area
     Date: Wed Oct 15 12:50:48 1997

     Message:

     I'm a relative newcomer in the cake decorating biz. I've been doing it as a hobby off and on for the last two and     half years and have recently decided to start my own business. I would really like some information on shows and     clubs in the Maryland/Washington, DC area. I'm anxious to see what others are doing and how my work     compares. Thanks.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: info
     Date: Thu Oct 16 06:37:30 1997

     Message:
     Hi Jennifer The best place and thing to do to stay in touch is to join ICES. Its only $27.00 per year (in the US)     but is International. You can find out ALL about them at http://www.ices.org (I totally recommend all cake     decorators join) They have a state ICES and oince you are a member your state rep will contact you when there   is a local thing.     DO always tell them where you heard about ices!!! Please.

Author: Jeannine Norder
     Subject: donuts
     Date: Wed Oct 15 10:11:46 1997

     Message:
     Does anyone have a recipe for making donuts from a cake mix? I'd love to be able to do that, if you could help

Author: Linda
     Subject: carrot cake
     Date: Wed Oct 15 09:33:54 1997

     Message:

     Looking for a carrot cake recipe that I have seen but for some reason can't find not that I want it. It replaces the     grated carrots with strained baby food carrots. Would appreciate the recipe if anyone has it.

Author: Juanita Kozikowski
     Subject: Carrot Cake
     Date: Wed Oct 22 13:31:46 1997

     Message:

     Mix by hand - 2 c sugar and 1 1/2 c. wesson oil
     add 4 eggs, 1 at a time. Blend in
     2 c. & 2 tbsp. flour 2 tsp. baking powder
     2 tsp. cinnamon pinch of salt
     2 tsp. baking soda

     Add 2 jars junior carrot baby food.
     bake at 350o 45 min

     FROSTING-1 stick butter 1 box powdered sugar
     1(8oz)pkg. cream cheese 1/2 c. chopped pecans
     1 tsp. vanilla 1/2 c. coconut

     Hope you like this! It's delicious!! Lost my receipe, too, but finally found one. Glad to share....Juanita Koz Indpls,     IN

Author: Lisa Brown
     Subject: Spiced Whipped Cream
     Date: Wed Oct 15 05:29:58 1997

     Message:

     Does anyone have a recipe for a spiced whipped cream frosting/filling? I am making a pumpkin cake that
     recommends using this. Thanks in advance for any help..

Author: joe
     Subject: might try spice filling
     Date: Wed Oct 15 18:10:34 1997

     Message:

     Have you heard of Ice-n-fil or baker choice
     some D.Q (Dairy Queen) use either or you can purchase these sometime through your local D.Q. I normally whip   up
     Ice-n_fil to a satin peak. then fold in premade mix of instant vannilla pudding ( use small box ) if recipe says 2 cp    milk use 1 and blend till smooth and your spices of choice.to the pudding mix well then fold into your whipped ice    in fil. you may refriderate or sit out over night. I have left it out over nite and had no problem. if you just add your    spices to the whipped ice-n-fil and have no pudding you can let cake stay out of refridge for 3 days. I teach    Ice-n-fil classes     goodluck any questions e-mail me

Author: Lisa Brown
     Subject: Spice Filling
     Date: Thu Oct 16 04:33:30 1997

     Message:
     Joe - I have never heard of ice-n-fil. Is it similar to Rich's Better Creme (a frozen product you whip)? Adding the     pudding and spices sound great. Thanks for your help.

Author: Joe
     Subject: re.filling
     Date: Sat Oct 18 15:16:14 1997

     Message:

     It is on the same order as ice-n-fil. have you used riches and if so have you tryed making a flavored filling try it     and let me know I like to find out. because I only know that Ice-n-fil and Bakers choice the same way.

Author: Lisa Brown
     Subject: Filling
     Date: Mon Oct 20 04:16:45 1997

     Message:

     Thanks for your suggestions Joe. I ended up using a cream cheese frosting and I added a little pumpkin pie spice     to that for the filling. It was really good. I have never used the Rich's but it is very popular in my area. If I do get     another cake that it would be appropriate for I will try it and let you know. Thanks again..

Author: Varinia Atkinson
     Subject: sugar molds
     Date: Tue Oct 14 19:02:00 1997

     Message:

     I would like to find the mold for making the sugar bells that was on my own wedding cake and also the basket     sugar mold.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Re: sugar molds
     Date: Wed Oct 15 04:41:54 1997

     Message:

     I would like to find the mold for making the sugar bells that was on my own wedding cake and also the basket     sugar mold.

     We carry a 2" sugar mold bell with ridges inside 75 cents
     Also a set of 3 bells that are smooth inside..sizes: 4---2---1 1/2" $1.99

     Dolores at Sugarcraft...go to MAIL ORDER for info

Author: Jackie
     Subject: cake magazine
     Date: Tue Oct 14 12:08:46 1997

     Message:

     Ok New Jersians, who has been buying all the American Cake Decorating magazines??? I have tried several     Barnes and Nobles where I have bought the magazine before since early Sept, and I have yet to find the current     issue. Does anyone know where else I could try? Hopefully I will get the next issue by subscription. Thanks for     your help!     Jackie

Author: Tracey
     Subject: ACDM
     Date: Wed Oct 15 15:28:05 1997

     Message:

     I had been buying the magazine at Border's Books before I subscribed. Maybe there is a chain near you. It's the     only place here in Hawaii that I have seen it.

Author: Mindy
     Subject: magazine
     Date: Wed Oct 15 10:15:15 1997

     Message:
     In my area they are sold at JoAnn Fabric Stores.

Author: Clister
     Subject: Cake Magazine
     Date: Wed Oct 15 08:19:24 1997

     Message:

     I live in Tennessee and the only place that I can find them is at one cake decorating supply shop and Michael's.     Maybe you have a Michael's chain there; they should have it.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Re: ACDM
     Date: Wed Oct 15 04:43:32 1997

     Message:

     Jackie, We carry this magazine...current issue...if you'd like to call us...513-896-7089 between 9:30-5 est
     ($3.99+shipping)

Author: Amanda
     Subject: ACD..Jan/Feb '96
     Date: Wed Oct 22 21:11:21 1997

     Message:

     I had the same trouble...til my subscription came through,and I still would like to see a J/F '96 issue. If only to get    a chance to read it.     The libraries here don't carry it either. I tried a lot of places.

Author: Clister
     Subject: Larry Powells' Big Book
     Date: Tue Oct 14 07:50:43 1997

     Message:

     Looking for Larry Powell's Big Book on Cake Decorating
     (currently out of print). Will buy or like to borrow.
     Please help.

Author: Jackie
     Subject: Wilton's butttercream
     Date: Mon Oct 13 18:46:54 1997

     Message:

     I have lost my recipe for "bakery like" buttercream that I got from the Wilton's level 1 course book and I can't     remember the ratio of butter to sugar. It uses heavy cream instead of milk or water. Could someone please post it     for me? Thanks a whole lot.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: icing
     Date: Tue Oct 14 04:59:13 1997

     Message:

     Here is the recipe of icing I use from the Wilton Basic Class 1 book...awful greasy...what are you doing with it,     practicing your roses?

     1 cup Crisco
     1 teas. vanilla
     1 TB Meringue powder
     2 TB water
     1 lb confectioner's sugar

     Most icings have only 1 cup Crisco to about 2 lb p. sugar.

Author: Jackie
     Subject: Re: icing
     Date: Tue Oct 14 12:01:05 1997

     Message:

     Hi Delores,

     Thank you for your quick response. The icing I am looking for is light,creamy, and medium consistency because    of the heavy cream. I have often used it to ice my cakes and love it. I am prety sure it was from the Wilton's level     1 book, but it maybe in the level II book. It is definitely not the practice buttercream.
     Jackie

Author: Debi
     Subject: RE: Wilton Icing
     Date: Tue Oct 14 14:07:46 1997

     Message:

     I hope the icing you want is this one:
     Extra Special Buttercream Icing
     yeild: 7 1/2 cups

     2 cups solid vegetable shortening
     2 lbs confectioners sugar
     (there are 4 cups in a pound)
     1/2 tsp salt
     1-2 tsp clear vanilla or your favorite flavoring
     6-8 o whipping cream

     1. Cream shortening until fluff. Add sugar and continue creaming until well blended.
     2. Add salt, flavoring and whipping cream; blend on low speed until moistened
     3. Beat at high speed until icing is fluffy.

     You may substitue 1 cup butter/margarine + 1 cup shortening
     to achieve a more buttery taste.

Author: Jackie
     Subject: Thank you!!
     Date: Thu Oct 16 05:57:36 1997

     Message:

     Hi Debi,

     Thank you very much for the recipe. It's just what I have been looking for.
     Jackie

Author: Debi
     Subject: Re: Wilton Icing
     Date: Wed Oct 15 07:56:51 1997

     Message:

     Jackie

     I have also used this recipe for wedding cakes fillings. By adding fresh strawberries or rasberries to the icing it     tastes like berries and cream. And sooo good. Hope this is the recipe you were looking for.

Author: Anonymous
     Subject: Angel cakes
     Date: Mon Oct 13 16:47:09 1997

     Message:
     I am not a pro cake decorator. I do this for fun in my spare time. I have a request for a cake in the shape of an     angel,      I have looked back at old and new Wilton's yearbooks but I cannot seem to find a good idea or pattern . Can     someone help me out with some simple patterns or ideas.

Author: Shannon
     Subject: Re: angel cakes
     Date: Tue Oct 14 09:12:24 1997

     Message:
     I don't know if you are wanting to make an adult angel or a child angle but I have an idea for a child angle. In the    most recent Wilton yearbook (probably last year too) They have a Precious Moments pan that is a little girl     holding a birthday cake. On the back of her dress there is a bow. If you didn't make the bow there would be just     the right amount of room for some angel's wings and instead of the birthday cake you could draw a harp. If you     don't decorate very often you might want to seee if there is somewhere you could rent the pan instead of having to     buy it. Hope this helps. Shannon

Author: Dolores
     Subject: angel
     Date: Tue Oct 14 05:01:07 1997

     Message:

     Several ways to do this...CK has a Pantastic Pan in the shape of an angel blowing a horn. But there are some    other great ideas in Wilton Yearbooks too.

Author: Kym
     Subject: East Coast Mold Company
     Date: Mon Oct 13 12:46:31 1997

     Message:

     Hi
     I'm looking for any information on candy molds made by the
     East Coast Mold Company.   This is for a friend who has a cake shop and makes specialty
     candies.    Any info would be appreciated.     E-mail to madwmn@worldpath.net     thanx

Author: Dolores
     Subject: molds
     Date: Tue Oct 14 05:02:30 1997

     Message:

     Hi Kym, We carry this brand at Sugarcraft...Just call and order anytime...If you want a certain NUMBER or    mold, also have the number handy when you call. Dolores

Author: Traci
     Subject: newsletter
     Date: Sun Oct 12 19:03:13 1997

     Message:

     I was able to download the newsletter to my computer, but when I pull it up in MS Word, it's in some computer     language or something. Is this because I haven't unzipped it? Where is my unzipping utility?

Author: Tracey
     Subject: newsletter
     Date: Fri Nov 7 14:24:15 1997

     Message:

     Have you downloaded and viewed the newsletters before or is this your first time? It maybe that you need to     unzip it. You can find unzip programs to download off of the net. Do a search for one. Usually if you have an     "unzip" program on your computer when you double click on the zip file the "unzip" program activates. If you have     viewed the newsletters before maybe you just need to try and download the newletter again. Good luck.

Author: Tracey
     Subject: Unzip
     Date: Wed Nov 5 13:38:26 1997

     Message:

     Yes, I think you need to unzip it. Usually, when you double click on the zip file your unzip utility automatically     "activates" and asks if you where and what files in the zip file you would like to unzip. Check to see if you even     have an unzip program (preferably PKZIP). If not you can download one off of the net. Good luck.

Author: lauren
     Subject: newsletter
     Date: Sat Oct 18 18:04:00 1997

     Message:

     what newsletter are you talking about? i am new to cake decorating and have been looking for sources of new     info for myself. thanks!!!

Author: Amy Christian
     Subject: sources of info
     Date: Wed Oct 22 17:26:20 1997

     Message:

     Here are some sources of great information:
     "Mailbox News" P.O. Box 16208, Mpls,MN 55416-0208
     $14/yr.
     "American Cake Decorating" P.O.Box 21645, Eagon, MN
     55121-0645 $19/yr.
     I know there are many others out there I haven't yet found.     Amy

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: newsletter
     Date: Mon Oct 20 05:04:22 1997

     Message:

     Its my newsletter available from my home page...choose NEWSLETTERS. Current issues are deleted after a few     months for lack of space. You'll need to download it to your computer then uncompress it (unzip). You can only     read it in Microsoft WORD unless you get a 'reader' prog. ...see directions on the newsletters page of my home     site.     http://w3.one.net/~proicer/index.html

Author: Shannon
     Subject: gumpaste leaves
     Date: Sun Oct 12 17:41:36 1997

     Message:

     I am learning how to make gumpaste flowers. I have gotten to a point where I can make the flowers look pretty     close to real but I am having a problem with getting my leaves the right color green. They don't realistic enough.     I've used Wilton's leaf green alone and mixed with other shades of green but I just can't seem to get the right     combination. Is there a different brand of icing color out there that is more realistic or is there a combination of     Wilton colors that some one knows?      Thank You, Shannon :>)

Author: mickey moore
     Subject: gumpaste
     Date: Thu Oct 16 14:53:47 1997

     Message:

     Shannon, if you dust the leaves when they're dry, that will go a long way to making them look realistic. A little     brown down the center, a little brown and/or red on the edges, will add a lot.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: gumpaste
     Date: Mon Oct 13 04:35:16 1997

     Message:

     > getting my leaves the right color green.
     Wilton's leaf green will never make a good leaf shade. Try mixing leaf green with willow green. We use to use     moss green but I think the mixture above is better. Color the gp willow g. then add leaf g. until it is the right shade   for what you are doing.

Author: CHERYL
     Subject: ISO WILTON CLOWN PAN
     Date: Sun Oct 12 17:08:09 1997

     Message:

     I AM ISO THE WILTON HAPPY CLOWN CAKE PAN
     IT IS THE FACE OF THE CLOWN ONLY ANY HELP
     WOULD BE APPRECIATED.

Author: Sarah Nelson
     Subject: clown face cake pan
     Date: Wed Nov 5 23:54:06 1997

     Message:

     Are you thinking of the one that looks like Bozo the clown
     that came out in the 70's? Or the newer one in the 80/90's?
     If it is the older one, I can help you out.

Author: Chris Brooks Janne
     Subject: candy leaves
     Date: Sun Oct 12 16:46:10 1997

     Message:

     I have been making fall leaves using the candy coating, (summer coating). I find it is easier to remove the candy     from real leaves than from the silk leaves. Does anyone know if there are leaves that are toxic and should be     avoided?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: leaves
     Date: Mon Oct 13 04:39:35 1997

     Message:

     You could try gum paste leaf molds. They leave a realistic imprint of the leaf. Some are flexible.
     BUT- what I do is I use plastic leaves. These are getting very hard to get since all artificial flowers are now silk.

Author: Debi
     Subject: Re: Candy Leaves
     Date: Sun Oct 12 16:59:31 1997

     Message:

     I found that if you are going to use real leaves the best ones are rose, or orange leaves. I'd rinse and dry them first.    But these were the only ones I remeber reading that were usable.

Author: Lisa
     Subject: Cookie Icing
     Date: Sun Oct 12 10:24:15 1997

     Message:

     I made some cute cut out sugar cookies, and made an icing out of sugar, milk and corn syrup. I applied it with the     back of a spoon, which was kind of messy. I was afraid if I thinned it too much, and poured it, it would not be     very thick on top of the cookie. Then... Do you put the royal icing trim work on then or wait until it dries and then     pipe it on?     Lisa

Author: Nancy
     Subject: cookie icing
     Date: Sun Nov 2 01:47:15 1997

     Message:

     I use the same recipe to ice my cookies. To thicken just add a little more powdered sugar. I use a spatula and ice     the cookie, a friend uses a paint brush and thins the icing.
     Experiment and find what works best.
 

     Subject: cookies
     Date: Mon Oct 13 04:42:54 1997

     Message:

     I use dry candy fondant to cover the cookie...just add water to a consistency that it will run out mooth - like color     flow if you've worked with that. This stays soft but dries hard enough that cookies can be stacked. The add the     details with royal icing...whenever - it dries real quick. This is the same as we use on petite fors too.

Author: Lisa
     Subject: Flower Cascades/Bubble on Cake
     Date: Sun Oct 12 10:21:25 1997

     Message:

     I was reading in one of the most recent chats on Dolores' page about placing cascading flowers on the side of the     cake (buttercream roses on buttercream). I still do not quite understand what is the best way to do this. Any     suggestions?

     Second, I made a cake yesterday and the customer came to pick it up today. Sometime between then and today     a "bubble" formed on the side of the cake - sticking out like a 1 inch bulge near the top edge of the cake. There     was only one so I tried to carefully push it back against the cake. It looked ok, but the icing was chocolate and     the cracks showed when I pushed it in. What causes this and how do I fix it?
     Thank you.     Lisa

Author: Dolores
     Subject: flowers & bubbles
     Date: Mon Oct 13 04:48:12 1997

     Message:

     For the sides, I have my roses well crusted. I apply a ring of buttercream icing to the bottom, place against the     cake...add leaves which touch both the cake AND the flower. They says on better if the cake is left set overnight     before delivering.

     'Bubbles' form when the icing 'blows' out from the side of a cake...air behind it...usually happens with small     cakes...like 6" etc. It happens because you don't press hard enough (when applying the icing) to get the icing     stuck real well on the cake. Bad if icing is too stiff too. Is this what you meant? I would have fixed it just as you     did and looks ok usually...make that the back.

Author: Debi
     Subject: Re: Bubble Cake
     Date: Sun Oct 12 17:06:08 1997

     Message:

     What kind of icing did you use (i.e. buttercream, fondant or what)? That might help in solving the problem.

Author: Lisa
     Subject: Bubble
     Date: Mon Oct 13 05:23:56 1997

     Message:

     It was buttercream. I read Dolores' response where she suggested that I did not press hard enough/icing too stiff.     I know my icing was a little too stiff. It was my first time making chocolate and I guess I didn't get enough liquids     in it.     Lisa

Author: Dora
     Subject: Colors Running!
     Date: Sun Oct 12 07:47:45 1997

     Message:

     I have made 3 attempts at making 101 dalmation cookies & my
     black is bleeding bright pink dots into the white (to bad the dalmations don't have pink spots!) I am using thin     consistency royal icing in black to outline details of the dalmation cookies. I let that dry overnight then I thinned     down the white & I used the color flow method to fill in between the outlines. I thought the last time I tried it that it     was going to work but when I woke up the next morning the pink spots were back! This is really strange, if     anyone can help I would sure appreciate it!      Thank you,     Dora

Author: Dolores
     Subject: colors run
     Date: Mon Oct 13 04:52:33 1997

     Message:

     Don't cover them...drawing moisture. We do carry powdered food colors that are garenteed not to bleed, but     other than this, don't cover them.

Author: Dora
     Subject: Thank you
     Date: Mon Oct 13 10:05:09 1997

     Message:

     Thank you so much for answering so quick! You are so sweet & so full of knowledge. I just ordered your book     this morning, 100 Petite Doll Pan Characters & also I ordered the Alpine Shortening, can't wait to try them both!
     I will definitely try the powdered coloring, great idea! In the meantime I will make sure to keep the cookies
     uncovered. Well back to the drawing board! Thanks again Dolores, you are great!

Author: Dee Blackwell
     Subject: Wilton Books
     Date: Sat Oct 11 17:52:07 1997

     Message:

     I have some older Wilton Yearbooks and I was wondering how far back do they still take your orders for things     in them? Also is it possible that they still may have some of the older pans etc.?

Author: Mindy
     Subject: old cake pans
     Date: Fri Oct 31 16:08:17 1997

     Message:

     I found a place on the internet that holds auctions. There are some Wilton pans for sale on it. Ziggy, jiminy cricket,     donald duck, dumbo, mickey band leader, mickey mouse, holly hobby, gingerbread man, big bird, darth vadar,     playboy bunny garfield and the cross cake pan are currently up for bids. I've never tried to bid before so I don't   know how it all works. The address is
     //cayman.ebay2.com
     Hope this helps you out. Mindy

Author: Dolores
     Subject: old yearbooks
     Date: Mon Oct 13 04:29:57 1997

     Message:

     If the item is not in the 1998 Yearbook, this means it has been discontinued. Wilton has NO discontinued pans.     All of those are getting hard to find online. The aol gals really traded for awhile. That has died out becuase I think     they have traded them all. DO look in garage sales and flea markets.

Author: Debi
     Subject: Re: Wilton Books
     Date: Sun Oct 12 17:04:03 1997

     Message:

     I think that the year books go back to 1970. I myself have from 76 to present. I'm looking for the older books     myself also the pattern books. I have been lucky in also getting some older pans from people who were getting rid     of them. I.e. garage sales and flea markets are great places to find them.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Yearbooks
     Date: Tue Oct 14 05:15:34 1997

     Message:

     I have a Wilton Yearbook I bought (for 50 cents!) in 1964. But they weren't published yearly until in the 70's I  believe.

Author: Brigid Heckman
     Subject: Retirement Cake for Special Teacher
     Date: Sat Oct 11 10:20:31 1997

     Message:

     I have been asked to do a retirement cake for 125 people for a special 3rd grade teacher. Never did gum paste     or sugarmold. I plan on putting 2 12x18 cakes side by side and then a 9x13 centered on top.........now, IF i could     only come up with some appropriate decorating ideas for this cake, I'm stumped.....If you have any ideas, Please     post, and a big THANKS.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Retirement cake!
     Date: Mon Oct 13 04:56:32 1997

     Message:

     Hi Brigid...thought I'd paste the email response I wrote you in...my suggestion to put your request here sure paid     off!

     We must think of a theme...a figurine made of icing of some sort or what? Are you going to do a tiered cake or a     sheet cake? If doing a sheet cake it might look nice to add a 9x13 or round cake on top then place a decoration     standing in 3-D on top.
     I suppose the theme should be 'teaching'...and children...gosh, it would be nice to have children of all races/colors     stenciled around on the sides of a round 2-layer cake...toys...or books...OH---what about a BOOK on the top!!!
     Make it out of a sugarmold book...easy to do of sugar OR white chocolate. (There is tinted white chocolate &     you put in the color, let set, then fill white;chill...easy and quick)

Author: Brenda
     Subject: Re: Retirement Cake for Special Teacher
     Date: Sun Oct 12 10:14:10 1997

     Message:

     I once did a cake for a teacher's appreciation dinner. It had a silhouette of a little red school house, of kids at     desks, one raising her hand, and a bell. It suggested school, teaching and really made a nice impression. You     could use an idea like this for the border, around the 9"x13"

Author: MaraTLee
     Subject: RE: Teachers cake
     Date: Sat Oct 11 16:47:58 1997

     Message:

     Dear Bridget,
     If you plan on placing a smaller cake on top of 2 12x18 make the smaller cake into an open book. Use a cake     comb (or fork) to mark the pages.(the sides of the smaller cake). With black or blue butter cream you can make     "notebook" lines or if you can get some of her students to write short messages (remember the "slam books") you     can write them every which way in the notebook.

     or use the old stand by--"Reading,Writing and 'Rithmitic";A,B,C's and maybe a piped apple smoothed flat with     your fingers diped in cornstarch or a hot spatula with a bookworm peeping out the apple with a pair of glasses.
     YOu can also make an apple border on the bottom of the larger cakes with a #12 and 352 leaves.----so you see,     there are a lot of options for you--get a children's coloring book about back to school, shoul be plenty on sale     now and adapt some of the pictures. MaraTLee

Author: Debi
     Subject: Teachers Cake
     Date: Sat Oct 11 14:24:01 1997

     Message:

     If you want you could make the 9x13 into a blackboard. If you don't want so much black make it green (the     modern version of a "black board"). And place an apple on the other cake with maybe pencils graded papers     etc.. This can be all done in butter cream if you wanted.     Debi

Author: Dereick Rushton
     Subject: teachers cake
     Date: Sat Oct 11 11:39:59 1997

     Message:

     sorry im not sure what grade3 is in teaching but i have a few ideas u could use for this cake:

     1. marzipan models to look like a classroom full of pupils
     2. Hobbies. you could use her hobbies
     3. make sugarpaste models of her subject

     hope this helps a little if you would like some more info  email me...     yours dereick

Author: Donna
     Subject: Buttercream icings
     Date: Fri Oct 10 06:00:49 1997

     Message:

     I just wanted to say how happy I was to find this message board because I don't have AOL and could only read   the chats but never participate in them.
     Every time I try the buttercream icings that use powdered sugar there is a terrible after taste even after using many   different types of flavorings. I assume it is from the added cornstarch in the sugar. Is there a special brand of sugar  that doesn't have this after taste or is there a way to make my own sugar?
     Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.      Donna

Author: Brigid
     Subject: icings
     Date: Sat Oct 11 10:16:48 1997

     Message:

     My buttercream icing consists of butter, crisco, xxx sugar and vanilla and milk to thin. Never have had a problem     with the xxx sugar I use. I DO love the taste that Watkins Vanilla imparts in the frosting. What buttercream recipe     are you using?

Author: Donna
     Subject: Re: icings
     Date: Mon Oct 13 13:39:28 1997

     Message:
     Hi.Brigid,
     Your icing sounds very similar to the ones I have tried. I use Domino powdered sugar. Like I said before, after     using many different flavorings there still is an after taste. The icings never seem to taste like the icings that you     purchase from the bakery. I even have the problem with the thin icings that you put on sweet rolls or glazes on     cookies. So I usually resort to prepared icings and add my own flavorings. But I am always on the look out for a     very white buttercream icing recipe I can make from scratch.     Donna

Author: Ellen
     Subject: buttercream icing
     Date: Mon Oct 20 08:18:51 1997

     Message:

     Hi Donna: I've worked in the food industry for 16 yrs. and have found many prepared foods just don't seem to be     easily duplicated in the home. Many restaurants entrees are bought by the individual portions with all necessary     ingredients added. Basically just "heat and serve". I too have been searching for years for a buttercream icing     similar to some of the grocery store/bakery chains and have yet to find a receipe beyond Wilton's with a few     minor changes. If you come across one, please let me know - I'd love to get a copy. Ellen

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Re: icings
     Date: Fri Oct 10 06:14:29 1997

     Message:

     Hi Donna, Glad you found us and do enjoy.
     Icing: Check out my icings page (from the home page, choose RECIPES/Icing Recipes). There are lots.
     Also, they say...cane sugar os a little bit better than beet sugar...if it doesn't say 'pure cane sugar' on the package,     then it's beet sugar. Dolores

Author: Donna
     Subject: Thanks for your help
     Date: Mon Oct 13 13:26:03 1997

     Message:
     Hi.Dolores,
     Thank you for your response. I took a look at your icings
     and there were many to choose from. I am looking for a not to sweet and very white colored buttercream icing. Is  there a favorite one of your's that might fit what I am looking for. Again thank you for your time.

Author: Kathy
     Subject: Almond Cake
     Date: Fri Oct 10 05:07:32 1997

     Message:

     I just wanted to say thanks for this board too. It is really nice to be able to talk with other cake lovers.
     Does anyone have a good receipt for an almond flavored cake. I had a wedding cake some years back and it was   soooooo good. I can't find a receipt for it. All I remember is that the texture was leaning more toward the pound   cake but it had a very light almond flavor.     Any help?      Thanks

Author: Nancy
     Subject: almond
     Date: Sun Nov 2 01:53:27 1997

     Message:

     I use Pillsbury white cake mix and add about a teaspoon of almond extract to it. Try this.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Re: almond
     Date: Fri Oct 10 06:17:58 1997

     Message:

     Hi Kathy...glad you are enjoying this new message board.
     I think if you add almond extract, you will achieve what you are looking for. But I bet the almond was in the icing.
     This is a quite common flavor to use...I use it myself. Flavors I use in icing are: to 2 lb. p.sugar/1 cup shortening, I   use 3/4 t. vanilla/1/4 t. almond extract/1/4 t. butter flavoring...pinch of salt & milk.
     Try it and let us know, Dolores

Author: Linda
     Subject: carrot cake recipe
     Date: Wed Oct 15 09:23:49 1997

     Message:

     I've seen a recipe for carrot cake using baby food strained carrots instead of grated carrots, but can't seem to put    my finger on it. I thought you had it in one of the talks but couldn't find it while skimming pages. Would appreciate    it if anyone has the recipe.

Author: Jennifer
     Subject: Cornelli Lace
     Date: Thu Oct 9 13:14:57 1997

     Message:

     I am going to make a cake this weekend with cornelli lace and I have never done it. Are there any tips or is it as   easy as it looks?

Author: Shannon
     Subject: RE: cornelli lace
     Date: Sat Oct 11 22:52:33 1997

     Message:

     Jennifer,
     I'm posting this note a little late for it to help you this weekend but maybe it will be of some intrest to you or   someone else. Cornelli lacework is one of my favorite techniques to use on wedding and wedding shower cakes.
     It's so simple and so elegant. If you have already made you're cake I'm sure you've found out it's also relatively   easy to do. ( Although, depending on how big your cake was, you've probably got a heck of a cramp in your   hand ) The finished result is usually worth it. My best advice to someone doing cornelli lace is to not think you   have to make the whole lace design one continuous string of icing. Never stop a string in the middle of the cake,   but, make the lacework in sections. Start at the bottom of the cake or where ever your border is going to be and   make one section at a time being carefull to make sure each section fits with the section before it like a puzzle   piece. Be sure also, if you're making it around the top edge of a cake, that it wraps around the edge

Author: Shannon
     Subject: RE:cornelli lace
     Date: Sat Oct 11 23:03:42 1997

     Message:

     A variation on cornelli lace is to make small sections of cornelli lace starting and ending INSIDE the area that you    are filling in and then place gold or silver dragees' (edible decor balls) at the end of each string. This would be    beautiful on a wedding cake.

Author: Janet
     Subject: Cornelli Lace
     Date: Sat Oct 11 12:16:15 1997

     Message:
     I've just learned this and my teacher (via Wilton) said to look at it as r's and S's ... cursive r's and printed S's. If     you look at some pictures, you may start to see that. I think Dolores' description is better since I don't REALLY     see the letters .. yet ;).     Hope this helps,     Janet

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Re: Cornellie Lace
     Date: Thu Oct 9 14:57:51 1997

     Message:
     Cornelli lace can look so dainty. It is very easy, but time consuming. I use a tip 1 or 2. Never larger or the lace is     distorted and heavy. Its more difficult to do on the sides of cakes since you must stay lightly touching at all times     or the strings drop. Don't ever cross lines. Cornelli lace should turn like jigsaw puzzle pieces sort of...this way and     that, never up-down, up-down the same way.

Author: Mindy
     Subject: lace
     Date: Wed Nov 5 14:12:01 1997

     Message:

     I made a cake with cornelli lace this past weekend, but this time I added some karo corn syrup to the buttercream     icing and it was much easier to do and the lines didn't break like they usually do. It turned out very nicely. Mindy

Author: Jennifer
     Subject: Country Kitchen filling
     Date: Thu Oct 9 13:13:05 1997

     Message:

     When using a Country Kitchen cake filling, does the cake have to be refridgerated and once open, how long will     any leftovers in the bag last?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: filling
     Date: Mon Oct 13 05:03:01 1997

     Message:

     I had to check with Sue---CK doesn't actually make the fillings they carry. (We carry the very same ones). These     are by Henry & Henry... These fillings don't need refigerated until opened. Then DO refrigerate...they keep the     same as jellies do...keep cold. They keep like jelly too. Will become thicker when kept a very long time, but do     not spoil. Even the cream cheese filling is safe to use on a cake without refrigeration....
     Tip: add cream cheese filling to your icing for a special cream ch. flavor!

Author: Lisa
     Subject: filling
     Date: Thu Oct 16 07:49:39 1997

     Message:

     I'm confused. The filling you are referring to needs to be treated like jelly and refrigerated after opening, then how     it can it be used on a cake (in icing or as filling) without being refrigerated? If most of my cakes sit finished at least     overnight - would it spoil?

Author: Dolores
     Subject: filling
     Date: Thu Oct 16 16:11:09 1997

     Message:

     But just think...you can take jelly sandwiches to the beach and they won't spoil either. I don't know that it NEEDS    to be refrigerated. But this is not for safety purposes, as with jellies. Dolores

Author: Dee Blackwell
     Subject: Your Books
     Date: Thu Oct 9 12:37:50 1997

     Message:

     I would like to that you for the help that you have given me and I was wondering is the only way to get your    books this way or are they in the book stores,etc. I'm looking for the Star Wars pans if you know anyone who    may have them to sell please let me know. Thank You, Dee Blackwell

Author: Dolores
     Subject: re: my books
     Date: Thu Oct 9 15:01:45 1997

     Message:

     (At this time) the only place to get any of my books is through Sugarcraft. Soon my wedding cake workbook    WILL be available everywhere...book stores, etc. I can't keep up with producing that one myself! Besides, it will    never become out-dated.

     Tell me which Star Wars character you want to make. I use to do R2-D2 waaay before there was a pan. But this     is the only one.

Author: Dee Blackwell
     Subject: Star Wars Pans
     Date: Thu Oct 9 17:54:29 1997

     Message:

     I have a 1983 Wilton Yearbook that I got from a yard sale that has the R2-D2 pan and the Darth Vader pans    along with the candy molds with R2-D2 & C-3PO Set,Star Wars Candy Mold Set. I would like to get the pans    for sure. I haven't tried to make the candies yet. Any help you can give me,because I have a 6year who would    love them or any ideas on how to make them out of another pan. I can draw some things that way. I have drawn   barney's etc. that way. Thanks,Dee Blackwell

Author: Julie
     Subject: Star Wars
     Date: Fri Oct 10 20:21:29 1997

     Message:
     I also have a little son who is as he puts it "into Star Wars." I just last week made him a R2D2 cake using the    tombstone pan. It was very easy. A place near me rents pans and I compared the old R2D2 pan to the tombstone   - almost exactly the same!     Hope this helps.     Julie

Author: Dee Blackwell
     Subject: Cakes
     Date: Sat Oct 11 08:30:18 1997

     Message:

     Do you think that you could use a Bell Pan to make a Darth Vader? I like your idea for the R2-D2 cake I will     have to try that. I was also wondering is you can tell me something about the piping gel. I was wondering if you     can tell me how long it will last in a small container that hasn't been open and how long it will last open? If you can     help me I would be very greatful for any help. I got a pink panther and a smurf pan from a yard sale but I have no     ideas how to do them. Dee Blackwell

Author: Debi
     Subject: Piping GelI
     Date: Sat Oct 11 14:04:31 1997

     Message:
     In response to your question on piping gel: it should stay fairly fresh if kept in a airtight container. I teach thru     Wilton and have had some piping gel from them that has lasted quiet awhile. I have even kept it in plastic bags     with a coupler on it and a piece of plastic to cover the end and a bread tie to close the other end. I don't     recomend keeping a metal tip with it cause it will decay the tip.     Debi

Author: Dee Blackwell
     Subject: Piping Gel
     Date: Sat Oct 11 15:46:17 1997

     Message:
     I have 2 containers I got a couple of weeks ago on sale at walmart where we live and the date on them was 1994.     Will they still be good since I haven't opened them?

Author: Debi
     Subject: Re: Piping Gel
     Date: Sun Oct 12 17:16:35 1997

     Message:

     I was told that the shelf life is good as long as they had not been opened. As I stated earlier I have had some for     quite awhile. And Yes some since 94 or earlier. And I still use it when I need it. I also freeze my piping gel     pictures to use at another time so that I don't have to be rushed for a fun or fanciful picture.

Author: Dee Blackwell
     Subject: Cakes
     Date: Sat Oct 11 08:26:26 1997

     Message:
     Do you think that you could use a Bell Pan to make a Darth Vader? I like your idea for the R2-D2 cake I will     have to try that. Thank You,Dee Blackwell

Author: Dolores
     Subject: pans
     Date: Thu Oct 9 18:12:13 1997

     Message:

     Millions of people would LOVE to have those Star Wars items! In our area they have been gone a very long time.
     Guess we'll just have to devise another way to create these characters. Keep the petite doll pan in mind...it is so     handy for so many cakes!

Author: Ellen
     Subject: Upcoming functions
     Date: Thu Oct 2 03:11:32 1997

     Message:

     I'm still learning about this area, so sorry if I've missed this information somewhere----does anyone know of any     shows coming to the Las Vegas, NV area? Thanks for your   help

Author: Lois S
     Subject: Candy Clay
     Date: Wed Oct 1 22:58:00 1997

     Message:

     At the Orlando convention Steve Klc a recipe for Candy Clay for molding. I am trying to make it up using white   choc.but it won't set up even using less sugaaar mixture. I need it for his choc. magnolias. HELP!!!

Author: Lisa
     Subject: Airplane Cake
     Date: Wed Oct 1 20:11:10 1997

     Message:

     I just got an order for a birthday cake for a United Airlines pilot. The wife ordered an 8"round with an airplane   theme. I was thinking of just drawing an airplane on the cake somehow - colors are red, blue (and silver).
     Anybody have any fantastic ideas they want to share - I'm more the wedding cake type so these creative things   are a little bit harder for me. THanks.     Lisa

Author: Dereick Rushton
     Subject: Airplane cake
     Date: Sat Oct 11 11:45:36 1997

     Message:
     why not make a pastillage model of the plane, u could use a plastic model kit for a mould.
     yours dereick

Author: Itzel
     Subject: newsletter
     Date: Wed Oct 1 16:53:56 1997

     Message:
     Dear Dolores;
     I'm having a problem dowloading your newsletters (item 9704 & 9705). Could you please help me in finding out   why these two newsletters won't download.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Newsletters
     Date: Thu Oct 2 00:15:39 1997

     Message:

     9705 downloads fine...as far as I went. It is HUGE and if I remember, at 28.8 it takes 30-40 minutes...sorry bout   that. 9704 seems to not be there. I think I may have deleted it because my site was full. I can email 9704 to you   but will take forever to download and you'll think nothing is happening. Let me know
     Guess I could put it back on now. I've deleted some things...will do asap...okay     Dolores

Author: Elizabeth McCraney
     Subject: magnolias
     Date: Tue Sep 30 03:22:02 1997

     Message:

     Can anyone tell me how to make the magnolias? I have seen some of the most beautiful cakes with them , but     everyone around here can not tell me how to make them. And since I have moved to Mississippi, I would love to     know what the secret is. I can make the leaves, no problem but the flowers, they don't turn out right.     Thanks,     Elizabeth

Author: Dolores
     Subject: magnolias
     Date: Tue Sep 30 12:39:21 1997

     Message:
     Have you thought of using gum paste? Our shop carries pre-made gp or I have included my recipe to make it     from scratch also. (Even if you opt for the mix, DO refer to my recipe for tips on useage. Gp dries hard but you  can have complete control by making one petal at a time.
     Magnolias are a big flower, so...not easy with buttercream or royal icings.     Dolores

Author: Trish
     Subject: hot hands
     Date: Mon Sep 29 20:34:20 1997

     Message:

     I have very warm hands, I'm new to cake decorating and I can't seem to find a good buttercream recipe that    won't melt when I pipe. Does anyone have a solution? I'm going to try to add more powdered sugar to my recipes    but I don't want to compromise the taste.

Author: Melissa
     Subject: Hot Hands
     Date: Thu Oct 16 09:40:29 1997

     Message:

     I had that problem, too! Make sure you're not using plastic decorating bags, your hands warm the plastic and melt   the icing. Parchment triangles have worked out much better for me - and cheaper!

Author: Shannon
     Subject: hot hands and icing color
     Date: Tue Oct 14 17:03:47 1997

     Message:

     Boy! There have been alot of responses on this topic! I have the same problem but didn't really notice it until I     was making a Winnie the Pooh cake and the yellow icing started getting warm and completely changed colors. It     became a darker yellow. I thought it would change back after it cooled off but it didn't. I had to end up scraping     off quite a bit of the icing and redoing it. The best thing Iv'e found is just try to keep you're bag fairly full and stick     it in the refrigerator every few minutes if you're decorating with the same bag for long stretches of time.     Shannon

Author: Shannon
     Subject: hot hands and icing color
     Date: Tue Oct 14 17:03:17 1997

     Message:

     Boy! There have been alot of responses on this topic! I have the same problem but didn't really notice it until I     was making a Winnie the Pooh cake and the yellow icing started getting warm and completely changed colors. It     became a darker yellow. I thought it would change back after it cooled off but it didn't. I had to end up scraping     off quite a bit of the icing and redoing it. The best thing Iv'e found is just try to keep you're bag fairly full and stick     it in the refrigerator every few minutes if you're decorating with the same bag for long stretches of time.     Shannon

Author: Tracey
     Subject: Ice Water
     Date: Tue Sep 30 16:21:07 1997

     Message:

     I think I read in one of the chats that someone keeps a bowl of ice water next to them and dips their hands in it to     cool off their hands. I also have hot hands and the color of my frosting changes for darker colors even in the     parchment bag.

Author: Lisa
     Subject: Me Too!
     Date: Tue Sep 30 13:32:26 1997

     Message:

     I am glad to know I'm not the only one with hands that must
     be over 100 degrees. My state rep (FL - humidity too) said
     to use Crisco, sugar that is not made from beet sugar, and
     try parchment bags because the plastic or featherweight will
     hold the heat in even more.

     I've switched back to Crisco, but still had melt down the
     other day. I may get some Alpine from Dolores to see if that helps. If you find a magical solution that solves your     problem, please let me know too!!!     Lisa

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Hot hands
     Date: Tue Sep 30 12:43:07 1997

     Message:

     People with hot hands have special problems. Ruth's advice on NOT using butter is very good. Another
     thing...NEVER fill your bag so full that you can't get all the icing piped out before it melts.

     Also, Earlene Moore (my partner on aol chats) has addressed this problem during chats. I wish I could tell you     which chat. But it will be in an older one...one of the first I think. Or email her at: pwdsugar@aol.com
     People with hot hands have problems the rest of us can only shudder over! Dolores

Author: Ruth
     Subject: Hot Hands
     Date: Tue Sep 30 09:18:21 1997

     Message:
     I don't know what recipe you are using but if you are using butter or margerine instead of Crisco that could be     part of the problem. Delores has wonderful recipes on her web site. I would try filling 2 bags and keep one in the     refrigerator and keep switching.

Author: Joyce N.
     Subject: Hot Hands
     Date: Sun Oct 12 20:19:12 1997

     Message:
     I also use the refrigerator to keep the icing cool, but take
     off the metal tip first, and don't leave the bag in the fridge too long. Good luck.

Author: Juliana D.
     Subject: Hot Hands
     Date: Mon Oct 13 07:32:50 1997

     Message:

     I also have hot hands and found it doesn't matter if you use crisco or alpine, these items won't change the temp of     your hands. I find the biggest proplem is making roses with sloppy icing. The only way I've been able to get     around the problem is to refrigerate the base of all my roses until hard and then make the petals. You wind up     buying more flower nails, but it less time and mess than switching bags. Good Luck!

Author: Dolores
     Subject: hot hands
     Date: Tue Oct 14 05:09:09 1997

     Message:

     Hi Juliana
     Instead of refrigerating the rose center, try substituting a Hershey's Kiss! This will also taste wonderful! Dolores
Author: Juliana D
     Subject: Hot Hands
     Date: Tue Oct 14 07:34:24 1997

     Message:

     Hi Dolores,
     What a great idea!. I'll try it this weekend for my next cake.
     See You Wednesday,
     Juliana Dascalos

Author: Debbie Goodwin
     Subject: GUMMY WORMS
     Date: Mon Sep 29 19:42:03 1997

     Message:

     A while ago I found a recipe for Gummy Worms!! i'm not sure
     if it was in one of the chats or at another site but now I can't find it. Does anyone have this?!?!??!

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Re: gummyworms
     Date: Tue Oct 14 05:13:02 1997

     Message:

     I haven't tried making gummyworms, but it IS a recipe similar to the one below. Use any flavor or leave it out. I     believe the trick is to have enough gelating in the mixture so it can be moolded...gummyworms look like they are     molded in a mold of some kind.

     CANDY GOODY-GOODY GUMDROPS

     3 envelopes unflavored gelatin
     1 1/4 cups water, divided
     1 1/2 cups sugar
     1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
     Green and Red Food coloring
     Additional sugar

     * In small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/2 cup water; let stand for 5
     minutes.
     * In a saucepan, bring sugar and remaining water to a boil over medium heat,
     stirring constantly.
     * Add the gelatin; reduce heat.
     * Simmer and stir for 5 minutes.
     * Remove from heat and stir in extract.
     * Divide mixture into two bowls; add for drops of green food coloring to one
     bowl and flour drops red to the other.
     * Pour into two greased 8x4x2 loaf pans.
     * Chill 3 hours or until firm.
     * Loosen edges from pan with a knife

Author: Tammy Dunkle
     Subject: Thanks for the page!
     Date: Mon Sep 29 18:13:52 1997

     Message:

     Dolores,

     This bulletin board page is a wonderful idea for fellow cake decorators and others to ask questions, share
     information, and to find those hard-to-get items you can't find anymore. Thanks a bunch!

Author: Tammy Dunkle
     Subject: Looking for cake items. . .
     Date: Mon Sep 29 18:02:21 1997

     Message:

     I'm trying to find the following items to purchase:

     Wilton 1991 yearbook
     Wilton pattern books, 1976, 1981, 1984, and 1991
     Wilton oval cookie cutter set
     Wilton golf bag, good news stork, and cottontail bunny pan

     If you have any of the above items you'd like to sell, please e-mail me. Thanks!

Author: Dolores
     Subject: cake items
     Date: Thu Oct 2 00:24:08 1997

     Message:

     Hi Tammy, Saw your ad in the ICES newsletter...came today. Aren't those cakes fabulous...just wait til next year!
     Hope you find the items. For the oval cutters, you can draw patterns around using mine for a pattern, then make    your own from wax paper roll cutters...or something similar...if anyone else has a better idea? Let me know & I'll    trace them for you. Dolores

Author: Kathy
     Subject: cake filling (mouse)
     Date: Mon Sep 29 13:53:33 1997

     Message:

     I need an easy, good, receipe for a chocolate mouse filling .

Author: joe
     Subject: filling choc
     Date: Sat Oct 18 15:43:14 1997

     Message:

     Have you heard of Ice-n-fil or bakers choice they are the same as riches bettercreme. but might go farther. Whip     the non-dairy product to a satin peak. you may take instant choc-pudding pre mixed with milk fold into the     whipped product. and let refridgerate for 1hr then use. If worried about the milk from the pudding you can melt     choc squares or use the liquid choc. I also used hersheys syrup in a 911 situation the people didn't know the   diffrence.

Author: Melissa
     Subject: mousse
     Date: Thu Oct 16 09:44:22 1997

     Message:

     You mean mousse not mouse, right? :)
     A real quick one that tastes great is mixing chocolate pudding with cool whip. You end up with a lot, so I freeze    tham in muffin cups and then defrost 2-3 each time I need it!

Author: Sherry
     Subject: Question about the pudding
     Date: Thu Oct 16 10:01:40 1997

     Message:

     Melissa,
     The choc pudding you mix with the cool whip...do you just blend the dry instant choc pudding mix into the cool     whip, or is the pudding already made, then blended?     Thanks,     Sherry

Author: Melissa
     Subject: Re: Question about the pudding
     Date: Wed Oct 22 10:09:11 1997

     Message:

     you make the pudding, could be cooked or instant, and then mix it with cool whip. You can use the leftover as    chocolate mousse, or freeze it like I mentioned before.     :) Melissa

Author: Jackie
     Subject: chocolate filling
     Date: Tue Sep 30 00:26:55 1997

     Message:

     Here is a great chocolate filling :

     1 1/2 cups heavy or whipping cream
     1 8oz pkg semi-sweet chocolate squares
     4 Tb butter or margerine

     Heat all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat until smooth and boiling, stirring.

     Pour into large bowl; cover and refrigerate until chilled, about 1hr. With mixer at high speed, beat until fluffy. I like     to add powered sugar to make it a little sweeter.

Author: Amy Christian
     Subject: filling
     Date: Thu Oct 23 18:59:27 1997

     Message:

     Is this a filling that needs to be refridgerated?

Author: Melissa
     Subject: fillings
     Date: Mon Sep 29 05:56:41 1997

     Message:

     I'm looking for some suggestions for filling cakes, I usually use the buttercream icing I frost the whole cake with,     but want some varation. Preferably a chocolate mousse, or a strawberry. Thanks!

Author: Elizabeth
     Subject: pineapple/coconut filling
     Date: Tue Sep 30 03:12:20 1997

     Message:

     Melissa,
     I have made cakes for several years with a filling made of pineapple/coconut. If you dont like the coconut you can
     omit it.
     1 Large can crushed pineapple including juice.
     2 cups sugar, 1 talbespoon cornstarch
     1 egg ( well beaten)
     1cup coconut, put first 3 ing. into 3 qt. saucepan & stir till well blended. Stir in egg slowly, place on med heat, and    cook till desired thickeness, add coconut & cool. Spread between layers of white or yellow cake. I do hope you    like it. You can even try other var. by adding lemon or orange zest to it. Elizabeth

Author: Jennifer
     Subject: Strawberry Filling
     Date: Mon Sep 29 13:31:17 1997

     Message:

     This is my Great Grandmothers Strawberry Pie Glaze Recipe, but it is also a great filling.

     1 1/2 c. sugar
     1 1/2 c water
     1/2 cup cornstarch
     1 small box strawberry jello

     cook first three ingredients stirring const. until it turns clear. remove from heat and add jello. Let cool. You can    add sliced berries and fill a pie shell or mix with crushed or sliced berries for cake fillings. The amount of berries is    a personal preference. I have never made a pie without being asked for the recipe.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Filling
     Date: Mon Sep 29 13:19:30 1997

     Message:

     This filling was given to me by Frances Kuyper (when she worked for Wilton as a teacher training instructor):

     Pineapple filling
     2 cups buttercream icing
     1 small can crushed pineapple;drained well
     2-3 drops Lorann Pineapple oil

     For chocolate filling we use commercial filling that tastes very good indeed. We also carry many other wonderful    pre-made fillings. Check on my web site under Mail Orders for ordering info.
     For Strawberry filling, try mixing crushed strawberries with buttercream icing...maybe add strawberry Lorann oil    too.     Dolores

Author: Mindy
     Subject: 1st order
     Date: Sun Sep 28 19:20:37 1997

     Message:

     I had my first cake order last week. It was for a 1950    pick-up on a 9x13 cake. I used the frozen buttercream    transfer method and it worked great. It really shocked    me when she called me up and wanted me to make   her son's birthday cake. My husband had told her husband that I did some cake decorating.
     Your web site has helped me soooo much. I don't get  AOL so I can't get in on the chats but I love reading  them later. They are a wealth of information. This  message board is another great idea. Thanks for all of the great help. Mindy

Author: Gia
     Subject: frozen buttercream method
     Date: Thu Oct 16 14:20:52 1997

     Message:

     Just found your site and I love it, there is always something new to learn about in cake decorating.
     Could you please explain to me what the frozen buttercream method is. I have 6 cakes to do in the next week and   a half and this method sounds like it could help me make my life a little less hectic.
     Thanks in advance    Gia

Author: Shannon
     Subject: frozen buttercream transfer
     Date: Sat Oct 18 22:00:26 1997

     Message:
     Gia,
     Hi! I just wanted to give you a little tip on the frozen buttercream transfer method. I'll assume that you have read     the other post from Mindy. In step 5 of the instructions it tells you to smooth over the icing with a spatula. This is     VERY important. If the icing isnt smooth and level on the back side it will be uneven on your cake when it thaws     out. This is a great method for geting more detailed drawings onto a cake or ANY drawings if you just don't like    drawing directly on the cake.     Shannon

Author: Mindy
     Subject: frozen buttercream
     Date: Sat Oct 18 11:31:15 1997

     Message:
     Hi Gia,
     The frozen buttercream directions are at the web site for   American Cake Decorating Magazine. The address is   //www.cakemag.com   Hope this helps you out     Mindy

Author: Tracey Laride
     Subject: Ditto for me
     Date: Mon Sep 29 16:31:21 1997

     Message:
     Yes, Dolores' web site has helped me alot also. I started decorating cakes in May of this year and I have used     alot of advise which I have read on this site and through the AOL chats. Unfortunately I am not an AOL     subscriber so I can not join in on the chats. But this message board is a great idea for those of us who want to     share but are not AOL subscribers. Thanks again Dolores and to all of you who have helped us beginners.

Author: Ruth
     Subject: Foil Paper
     Date: Sun Sep 28 01:30:04 1997

     Message:

     I was wondering if it is ok to cover cake boards with foil gift wrapping paper?

Author: Sherry
     Subject: Wrapping cake boards
     Date: Thu Oct 16 10:10:34 1997

     Message:

     My Wilton instructor used to wrap her cake boards in whatever gift wrap she liked, but would then cover the     board again in clear plastic wrap to provide a barrier between cake and paper. Clear cellophane would probably     also work.     Sherry

Author: Dolores
     Subject: all about foil/cakes/safety
     Date: Fri Oct 10 06:21:45 1997

     Message:

     I had this on...before the crash...here it is again:

     Q. When you put a cake on cake board how do you cover it first? With a doily or what?
     A. Doily or FDA (only use FDA foils) foil either one. This amounts to personal preference. Cakes are usually     placed on cardboard cake circles and in a box, to sell. If you feel you can't afford to buy a box, you aren't    charging enough. Your customers will appreciate sanitary conditions.
     The cardboard MUST be covered or grease from buttercream icing seeps into it and makes it soft and flimsy. We    prefer to use food approved foils, taped over the back. Some people cover with doilies, which are lacy and   scalloped-edged.
     The cardboard, doily and box should all be 2 inches larger than the cake to be placed on it. So, if you have an 8"   cake, you need a 10" cardboard, a 10" doily and a 10" box. Rectangle cardboards are not always precisely the   sizes you desire. Just try to get the closest to the preferred size.
     MAKE SURE ITS STURDY: For heavy cakes, use a masonite board to support them.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: foils
     Date: Mon Sep 29 13:28:49 1997

     Message:

     Actually we shouldn't use anything against any food that is not FDA approved. The only FDA approved foil is     sold by Wilton. Others I have tried bleed color onto the cake when cut. I don't like this at all. I would rather use a     doily than to have this happen. Dolores

Author: Lisa Brown
     Subject: Foil Paper
     Date: Mon Sep 29 11:15:36 1997

     Message:

     I don't know if it is considered "food safe" or meets the food safety codes, but the cake supply store I use sells     cardboards prewrapped in all colors of foil wrapping paper. I know they use it on the cakes they sell also.

Author: Lisa
     Subject: Great Idea
     Date: Sat Sep 27 18:30:59 1997

     Message:
     Dolores,
     What a great idea. Can't wait to read the board messages    when it really gets going. By the way, remember the trouble    I was having with my icing, well I did step 1 and switched    back to Crisco. It was a little better, but didn't have    time to try the roses.     Lisa

Author: Dolores
     Subject: icing/roses
     Date: Mon Oct 13 05:08:03 1997

     Message:

     Hi Lisa, good - Crisco is the only brand to use. For roses, add some powdered sugar to make it a little stiffer if    the petals 'wilt' - also makes better control.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: icing
     Date: Sat Sep 27 19:52:49 1997

     Message:

     Hi Lisa,

     Yes, use only Crisco brand shortening...OR better still, the regular bakery shortening used just for icing....but    comes in a 50# cube and is not usually available to home decorators. We DO carry it at Sugarcraft in smaller    quantities. The brand is Alpine. Sweetex is another. I prefer Alpine.     Dolores

Author: Faline
     Subject: Wilton Candy Melts
     Date: Mon Dec 1 13:40:54 1997

     Message:

     Hi everyone. One of the Wilton holiday idea books has a picture of a chocolate cake with a chocolate (candy     melt) christmas tree on top. I'd like to make this for our office holiday party, but have never tried candy melts.     Does anyone know if they actually "taste" good? If not, can you recommend an alternative?
     Thanks, bunches! --Faline

Author: Lynne
     Subject: Re: Wilton Candy Melts
     Date: Mon Dec 1 14:15:04 1997

     Message:

     Hi Faline;
     Personally I don't care for the taste of Wilton's candy melts. An alternate choice is Merckins
     Dolores sell it or you can get yourself right over to your local handy-dandy cake supply store and ask for "summer     coating" or chocolate coating. Another sub would be to buy a LARGE Hershey's candy bar and melt it in a     double boiler or CAREFULLY in the Micro. Good luck.     Lynne (Kakeladi)

Author: Faline
     Subject: Wilton Candy Melts
     Date: Mon Dec 1 17:20:15 1997

     Message:
     Thanks for the advice, Lynne!
     Just faxed my order to Dee for Merckins. Think I remember sampling it at Convention.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Would candy bars work?
     Date: Tue Dec 2 14:28:27 1997

     Message:

     I don't know if candy bars would work? Aren't they real chocolate? And if so, don't you have to temper the     chocolate for that? Also, if the candy bars were old the choclate will be dried out and won't melt very well (will     stay real thick). ...Just a thought. I sure do prefer Merckens chocolate to Wilton's.

Author: Lynne
     Subject: Re: Would candy bars work?
     Date: Thu Dec 4 00:13:28 1997

     Message:

     I have seen articles that said to use them. I sometimes mix some cho chips in with my summer coating, but must be     careful not to add too much or there will be problems with streaking & bloom.     Lynne

Author: Lynne
     Subject: Books & Equipment for sale
     Date: Mon Dec 1 14:52:16 1997

     Message:

     I have many, books and other cake decorating equipment for sale. Contact me e-mail for list and prices.
     Following is just a small sample of some of the items:

     Wilton books: Encycopedia Vol 3; Celebrate II and IV;
     yearbooks: 94 & 95; 81; 82; 83; 88; 89; 77; 78; 79; 76 and 73. Other 1970's era books and magazines.
     Wedding Cakes Album; Book of Wedd cakes and Beautiful Bridal cakes;

     "Sugar Art" by Kate Venter and "Cake Decorating" by Fay Gardner.
     Mail Box News magazines (about 100)
     Tips and just a few pans.

     Please contact me E-mail for more information:
     kakeladi@mindinfo.com (be sure to use all Lower case letters)

Author: Dora
     Subject: Re: Books & Equipment for sale
     Date: Wed Dec 3 18:57:46 1997

     Message:

     I have tried to E-Mail you, I know you are having trouble with your messages, I am very very interested in     receiving your list & prices. I am especially interested in the 1995 yearbook.     Thank you,     Dora

Author: Lynne
     Subject: Re: Books & Equipment for sale
     Date: Tue Dec 2 12:04:51 1997
     Message:
     I have had some problems with e-mail. Some of my replies to your messages come back 'server unknown'. If you     have sent me e-mail requesting my list and it has not been answered   please send me another request and I'll try again.     Lynne

Author: Lynne
     Subject: Re: Books & Equipment for sale
     Date: Fri Dec 5 00:57:16 1997
     Message:
     ALL YEARBOOKS except 1973 for $20 ARE SOLD. There are a few other books and equipment still
     available.     Lynne

Author: SHIRLEYR
     Subject: RE:BOOKS AND EQUIPMENT FOR SALE
     Date: Sun Dec 7 23:58:16 1997

     Message:
     LYNNE,      I TRIED TO E-MAIL YOU, BUT GOT NO RESPONSE.I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE     ANYTHING LEFT FOR SALE AND THE PRICES.     THANK YOU     SHIRLEYR

Author: lynne
     Subject: Re: RE:BOOKS AND EQUIPMENT FOR SALE
     Date: Wed Dec 10 00:41:14 1997

     Message:

     Just found this message :(     Have I e-mailed you yet? Send me your e-mail address.
     Lynne

Author: shirleyr
     Subject: Re:books and equipment
     Date: Wed Dec 10 02:29:50 1997

     Message:
     Lynne,     Glad you got my message.My email is shirleyr@dixie-net.com

Author: Maureen
     Subject: sugar dipped tea spoons
     Date: Mon Dec 1 20:57:33 1997

     Message:

     I am looking for directions to make sugar dipped teaspoons for tea. They have coarse sugar crystals in colors.     Pleas help me.

Author: Dolores
     Subject: Re: sugar dipped tea spoons
     Date: Tue Dec 2 14:25:31 1997

     Message:

     We do carry the colored coarse sugar crystals. But I don't know what you use to make them stick on.
     Dolores at http://w3.one.net/~proicer/index.html

Author: Gerard
     Subject: Re: Re: sugar dipped tea spoons
     Date: Fri Dec 5 18:30:45 1997

     Message:

          Corn syrup.
 



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