What is the very best thing/best secret you have learned here on CC that you could not have learned any where else? I am really curious to know because I love all the ideas and secrets shared here!
I would have to say my favorite one so far (of many lol) would be adding the caramal vanilla creamer to my cake mix and BC.

What to do with cake scraps ......
Make cake balls

Ditto on using cake scraps to make cake balls.

There are sooooo many, but I'll just name one.
The Flower nail trick!

For those who don't know what that is.. It gives you level cakes when baking.

Just grease and flower a metal flower nail, place it faced down in your baking pan, pour batter around it and bake your cake as usual. Works great. No need for those baking strips or a baking core.

When the cake is done and cooled, just turn it out and the flower nail is on the bottom. No big hole, only a slight indentation the size of the flower nail head

Yes, your right, the flower nail, that has got to be one of the best!

I would have to the Viva paper towel and the FBCT.

rezzycakes I have never herd of that one THANKS FOR SHARING!!

So far one of the best "tricks" I've learned is "Violet cancels Yellow."

This is used to get a pure white color (if your BC has a yellow tint from using reeal butter of course!)

mine is wrapping my still warm cakes in plastic wrap to cool in, makes them so much more moist and everyone loves them even more! they even last longer.

I have learned lots of little hints on CC but I think the best thing about CC is the fact that I'm not the only one who makes mistakes. It's reassuring when someone posts that they've screwed up. Makes me realize that we are all human!!!

I've learned that Wilton isn't the only supplier in this old world. So glad I found out about Americolor on here. I love the way everyone jumps in to help you when you need to find something. I could go on and on.

Diane

My favorite is FBCT, because I can't draw, but I can trace an outline and fill in. I also like the smooth top.

RP

I have to agree with using yourcake scraps and the caramel/vanilla coffeemate. I didn't know about the flower nail either, I'll have to try that! Thanks for sharing rezzycakes!!!!!

Thanks for starting this thread, Patton78 K'ly ^,,^

Thanks in advance to EVERYONE!!! I know we are going to get ALOT of new ideas.

So far I have to say the flower nail trick I just learned by reading this post I have to try that on my next cake thanks CCers

I've learned so much but I have to agree with the flower nail.

i just tried the violet cancels yellow trick and it worked.. OMG this has to be the best tip i have learned off cc.

kylie

FBCT, definitely.

pushing down on your cakes as soon as you take them out of the oven to level them

viva paper towel trick

Ditto on the leveling by weight when cake is removed from the oven. Nice time saver!!
One problem....my grandson is complaining he doesn't get the ''top'' anymore!!! I had always cut the removed extra in half, then filled with icing to make an impromtu ''whoopie pie'' for him.

I have learned many things including the FBCT, and I can't wait to try the flower nail. I liked learning I have options other than Wilton. But most definitely I like the fact that other people go through the same things I do when making a cake. I wonder do any of the rest of you pray over cakes? I have a daughter who that is her job on "cake day". Thanks to everyone who is willing to share their secrets it sure makes a difference.

I tried the vanilla/caramel creamer thing today and just finished the cake scraps....oh my oh my oh my! Right now, while I am in cake-scrap euphoria, that is the best tip.....but I have also really used the Viva towel trick quite a bit!

All of the above!!!

those are great tricks and tips!!!

And I can also add: tootsie rolls/starburst flowers!!!!

Gotta love CC!!!!!

OMG what have I not learned on this site. I am new to cake decorating still taking classes and I have noticed that the Wilton instructor does not tell you any little secrets. I am going to be trying the flower nail and the fbct this weekend. I just read the tip about using hersheys kisses for roses. I am horrible at roses though I am getting better how does the kisses work. I could go on and on there is so many wonderful people on this board that shares there ideas and tips. Hope some day I can share something I have learned. Thanks

Wow, this caramel/vanilla creamer sounds great! How much do you add into your mix??? And flavors besides white and yellow do you use it in??

I would have to be the viva method.

For me, it's been the Viva method, the flower nail and even though I haven't yet tried it, FCBT and chocolate transfer.

The best thing I have learned from CC is the FBCT!!

But, I'm still learning new things everyday and that's great, too!!!

Ok, so I'm really new at this and feel like I don't even know the basics! So, what's FBCT and the viva method? Thanks!! >^..^<

MMF and FBCT. Never even knew these things existed! Just having you guys to consult with. I used to talk people out of fondant because I did not know how to make it and Wilton is yuck! I have been so much more creative since getting on this site. I can tell week to week the improvements in my work. Thanks everybody at CC!!!

cakelady11215 heres some links to help you

http://www.cakecentral.com/article12-How-To-Create-a-Frozen-Buttercream-Transfer.html

http://www.cakecentral.com/article10-How-To-Create-Faux-Fondant.html

Good luck and welcome !!