I have to make two elaborate cakes with fondant "stuff" all over them. Since I have a regular job and this is my hobby, I need to make in advance. How long will fondant figures "keep" and what do I need to do to "keep" them so that they aren't gross once I make the cakes?

TIA

As long as the items don't need to be soft, you can make them well ahead. fondant will last a very long time, protected from dust and light. It is best NOT to keep them in airtight containers. you want them to dry out. Some colors do fade, particular pink and lavender

Thank you so much. Naturally I'm doing a lot of red on white and I was worried about the red dulling or bleeding on to white.

They shouldn't dull or bleed. They last for a very, very long time.

The only things you need to consider are whether the pieces will be the right size to fit on the cake and whether you need any parts to be flexible for placement on the cake.

I have a sleeping baby and a baby bum that are both made of fondant that I have used on several cakes over the last 2 years. After they "cured", I placed them in a zipper seal bag and pull them out when I need them. No mold or discoloration...so far. You should be okay. Good luck!!

How long does MMF last?

........How long does MMF last?.......

Under the same conditions, they last the same as fondant &/or gp.

In the freezer, I'd almost say indefinitely! The only thing to be wary of is if it isn't wrapped super-tight and several times in plastic wrap, after a generous coating of shortening has been applied. This is all to help prevent a shell of sorts from forming - a crust from air getting to it.