I can never seem to smooth out my buttercream. Any suggestions?

I had the same problem with my buttercream. Last night I used the viva towel method, and I can't believe how smooth my icing was. It reminded me of fondant, and I didn't have to put as much work into it. I used a piece of Viva paper towel and rubbed it over my buttercream after it crusted. I use the paper towel like I would a fondant smoother. I cupped my hand and rubbed the paper towel all over my cake. I will definitely use that method again. Here is my cake using the paper towel method. Also I've used a hot spatula (dip the spatula in boiling water) on my buttercream. That works, too.

Oophs! My picture didn't appear. Look in my photos, and you will see the bridal shower cake. I hope my hints will help you smooth out that icing.

Viva paper towel with a fondant smoother HANDS DOWN! I truggled for years with ugly (I mean that) BC I got a roll of those and whipped out my fondant smoother and Voila! Smooth icing! Now if I can just keep my arms out of them, I'll be good!

Elle

http://cakecentral.com/article83-Quick--Easy-Smooth-Icing-Using-a-Roller-Melvira-Method.html

Honestly, it works as well as the Viva method, but a ton faster. You can even use it WITH a Viva towel! Give it a try!! Good luck!

I swear by the Melvira method.... (high density paint rollers on crusted bc) I have also used waxed paper, just be sure it isn't wrinkled.

hee hee hee... we posted at the same time... I bow to you Melvira!!!

Thanks everyone!!! I will definitely try these tips out!

I just have to chime in on the Melvira method.

I made my sister's wedding cake last month. When I left to go to the rehearsal, it was finished, but I hadn't placed the top tier on yet- it was sitting on the table. When I came back later, there was a big "gash" in the icing on top. Someone accidentally hit it with a tray or something. Everyone else was freaking out, but I just whipped out my high density roller and smoothed it right out again- it was perfect!!

Yay Melvira!!

albumangel... that rules!!! And I bet it knocked everyone's socks off, how calm you were and just did a quick fix!! Kudos to you for showing 'em what a gal with skills can do!!