Hi

can someone please advise how i can make conifer trees...preferably not using the buttercream...
i read somewhere this can be created using fondant...but how would i make the fondant soft enough to pass through a piping bag. Or is there a cheats way?!

Here's a relatively easy way of doing it. Hope this helps
http://artisancakecompany.com/2009/10/how-to-make-edible-trees/

I make a fondant cone & stick it on a skewer. Use manicure scissors to cut tiny snips all around the tree. See skier cake in my photos for example. Hth!