im new at all this and just getting started. i would like to know if there is a certain kind of cake to make if i am going to carve a cake and use fondant. can you use a box cake or do you make one from scratch

Use a firm cake-pound cake or Duncan Hines and use the recipe on the side of the box and add a pack of dream whip.
Hope this helps.
Happy Baking and Decorating,
Chef Angie