I make hydrangea by forming a cone, hollowing it out, cutting it into four divisions and smoothing the petals with my thumb and forefinger. They look ok. I've attached a pic of mine.

I'd like to be able to make them quicker. I'm wondering if anyone has a better method for production, or can recommend a book.

Have you ever looked at a Ron Ben Israel cake? His hydrangea are really great. They aren't realistic, but they look great and look easy. I can't figure them out, though.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

I think yours look great! I use the cutter and veiner set. They are just plain time consuming. I'm wondering if your method is quicker than mine!!

. . . I like this video for making hydrangeas . . . http://www.marthastewart.com/article/clay-flowers?autonomy_kw=hydrangea&rsc=header_3

I have done both methods..both of them, I feel ,are the same amount of time. One does have the veins, wich I love the look. But then again you need to have the veiner. The other one has no veins. you have to add them, but needs no cutter.
My favorite one still the veiner..
Edna

i use this cutter and veiner set: http://www.globalsugarart.com/product.php?id=19020

I've attached a photo of hydrangeas I've made with it. It is easy - you make the center first, let them dry, and then do the petals and attach. i find it goes really quickly, to be honest.