I've been asked to do a Barbie cake (dummy)...the kind where the doll is actually stuck into it. I was asked also how long it would take to decorate it. Since I've never done one, I have no clue. I know it will depend on the design...but was wondering if there is a guess-ta-ment of how much time it should take? I'm only asking because this is once again for the lady who said "it took THAT long" when I told her how long the decorations for the Hawaii Beach cake took (in my gallery) to make (mind you, she's paying me $8.00 and hour to do this and she is supplying the materials). I guessed anywhere from 2-3 hours (thinking of making a Peacock themed gown for Barbie). Maybe I am being out of line with my time...I just don't know, but anytime I do something for her I feel so rushed

Thoughts? Ideas?

Also I'm rethinking my doing work for her!

I have done several barbie cakes. It does depend on the design, but barbie cakes tend to be easier and a little faster. I spend about 2 hours on mine, granted I'm a perfectionist and have to redo stuff 10 times, so sometimes it takes longer, but not like ALL day long. Hope that helps!

Thanks Jessie. I'm the same way. I like things perfect, but when she starts asking me about how much time it's going to take (after the last time she commented on my time), I'm a bit punch shy. I figured it should take no longer than 3 hours...possibly just 2, but am afraid she's even going to think that's too long.

I know, its so frustrating when people don't realize that cake decorating is work and it takes time to get a neat cake. I think the longest a barbie cake has ever taken me is 3 hours, but that was like my very first cake. Are you using buttercream or fondant?

Jessie- It will be a fondant covered cake.

I don't know CW, it's just an arrangement she came up with and I thought "What the heck"...little did I know she was going to be so preoccupied on how long things take to make than on the finished product. She did end up loving the decorations for the beach cake, but now I feel funny about doing things for her as I feel she thinks it should only take X amount of hours to "kick" something out. I think it's time I end our arrangement. It hasn't done anything for me but to question myself on my speed.

I want to thank you both for your input. I really appreciate it.

I would be rethinking doing the work for her , especially at $8 and hour, Yikes , I pay myself at least $25 when I am doing a cake and working out the cost.
and things take as long as they take.

The fondant shouldn't take that long so hopefully she will be satisfied and then you should run away from her!