I haven't done that many 3D cakes and so I need some pointers on how to make a barn and a silo that will stand up on a sheet cake. I'd like to do something like this picture. I have PM'd the person who made it, but haven't heard back yet.

My major concerns are how to keep the silo from falling over, since it will be sitting on a sheet cake. I realize you need to attach some skewers, but a sheet cake isn't very deep and I am worried it won't support the height of the silo.

Also I see that some people have used RKT for the silo. When I have used RKT in the past, they seem to be bumpy even after I shape them. What's the trick to getting them smooth?

Also any suggestions on the barn would be appreciated! Thanks!

The pic didn't attach. Try posting the URL so we can copy and paste it. The pic feature has been inoperative for months now.

Re the silo: It's not the sheet cake that's supporting it. Construct your cake board from at least 2 layers of 1/2 inch foamboard - 3 layers for the most peace of mind. THAT is what will support your sharpened dowel or skewer.

If you're worried about how a double thick board will look, cut the second board an inch or two smaller than the main board and glue it to the bottom of the main board. Not only will it provide thickness where you need it, it'll be easier to get your fingers under the cake to lift it.

You will still need a board and dowels/straws under the silo to keep it from crushing the sheet cake.

If you choose to make your silo from RKT, apply a thin coat of buttercream or royal icing to the molded silo to smooth it out. Then, you can apply your bc or fondant. Be sure to form the hole through the silo where the skewer will go as you build the silo. It will be very difficult, if not impossible, to drive a skewer straight through a tightly packed RKT silo.

Thank you for your great answers! Here is the url of the cake.

http://cakecentral.com/gallery/492613

So I guess if I am using the cake board as support, I could even use cake for the silo. I was thinking about baking some batter in a soup can, since I hate dealing with RKT!

Yes, you could use cake for the silo. I've never baked in a soup can, but I'd be careful not to fill it too much otherwise it won't rise properly and wind up very dense and/or overcooked on the outside and undercooked on the inside. Maybe wrap the can with a damp kitchen towel? And a flower nail would be good too.

Thanks for the nice compliment! Your cakes are awesome, too!

Hello LoriMc,
I needed some tips with the silo to make a barnyard cake,what did you end up doing?