Whenever I try to cut something out in fondant that isn't a straight line where I can use a pizza cutter type wheel, it always tears and the edges aren't smooth. In addition, the knife pulls the fondant distorting my shape! I usually cut shapes out with a zacto knife and I've tried dipping it in confectionary sugar, putting the knife in hot water, etc. and I have had no luck. Anyone have a solution to this?

That happens to me sometimes, but it's usually when I'm cutting too fast. If I slow down a bit, that seems to take care of it.

Also, sometimes if I'm really having a tough time I use an up and down method, making a lot of single cuts in a row..... kind of like sawing, I guess. The edges aren't smooth, but the fondant doesn't tear and I can smooth the edge once my shape is cut out.

I like to use a pizza wheel or a small pastry wheel if I can.

It also helps to use a nice new blade! I try to get as much use of them as possible, but if your are doing something really precise with alot of corners and turns it helps to put a new blade in.

Thanks for the tips. I do use a new zacto blade...it just appears that the fondant "grabs" or sticks to the knife when I'm cutting it causing it to tear or pull.

sounds like maybe your fondant is too thick. Are youusing a pasta machine to roll it out?

I know, I hate that. I've tried greasing my exacto blade with shortening but it doesn't help a great deal. I end up making a cut, wiping off the fondant that got stuck, apply grease, repeat.

No, the pasta machine is on my Christmas list

I'll try rolling it out thinner. Thanks!