The only way my 20 qt. mixer does the job I want with cake mixes is if I sift the mixes first. I have a large hand-held "turn the crank" sifter, but it's slow-going and tiring. Surely there's a better option short of one of those major attachments that fit on the front of the mixer! What works for you?

I have something silimilar to this
http://www.webstockpro.com/Value+Stock+Images/39258472.Tea-Strainer-Isolated-Photo/

first photo i found when on Google -
It marvellous - its rather HUGE - i sit it over an even bigger bowl - sift away - and its all done in a minute.

HTH.

Bluehue

I never sift anything. Do you add your liquids before you add your cake mix? I find this works well.

I sift my dry ingredients using a wire mesh strainer. It works beautifully. I also mix liquid ingredients first before adding the dry. It make for a smoother batter.

i sift to! I use a wire mesh strainer with a long handle.