I made some a while ago and kept it in an airtight container - it's now totally solid, and just crumbles when I try to work with it. Does anyone have any tips on reviving it? I only have today to make models for tomorrow, and no time to make a fresh batch or buy the ready made stuff. Could I microwave it & add water maybe? Thanks in advance x

Just zap it in the microwave until workable.

I take it you are talking about having made *gumpaste* using Tylose.
Yes, it often will get hard when it sits for long time - especially if it was not very well wrapped/stored in airtight plastic.
Take small marble sized hunks and work, work, work it until it becomes somewhat soft. You can put it in the MW BUT take a golfball size hunk and zap for only 5 seconds! &........ when it sits after that it will become even harder than before Add a bit of shortening to help loosen it. Also if that doesn't seem to help....then dip just the tip in fresh egg white (meringue powder w/water helps but fresh is better.)It might get real squishy(is that a word? hehe) - kind of slimy - but keep working it and it should come together and be nice and smooth. Once workable Keep well wrapped in plastic wrap and add to it as you go. Good luck

PS: In the amount of time and engery it is going to take you to work this out you could easily make a fresh batch!
Using Nic Lodge's recipe it is easy and quick. Just make a batch of royal icing using 2 pounds of sugar and add 12 level teaspoons of Tylose (quickly but one at a time)... and BINGO - it's gumpaste I've often made it using meringue powder rather than fresh egg whites as his recipe states and the recipe easiely halves if you donn't need much gp.

Thanks for your replies. I zapped it in large chunks (using a couple of drops of water) then mixed it with a small amount of fondant, and it's worked out great, nice & pliable. It has dried out very quickly though once I've made the models, but at least its working! Thanks again folks

Sorry, I am sure I just missed it, but where do I find Nick Lodges gumpast recipe? Is it in the recipe section?? I couldn't find in. Thanx.

Here is nick's recipe for gumpaste. Makes up beautifully!!! Scroll down a little ways for it.hth



http://www.firstimpressionsmolds.com/sugarpastefondantgumpasteandpastillage.aspx

Thank you very much !