Well i initially got on this site to try n find b-day cake ideas for my sons b-day in july and to find someone to bake it because theres no way i could decorate these cakes like u guys do i mean the talent on here is mind blowing. But now im kinda getting the itch to try it lol Looks like lots of fun and i think id enjoy it .. as a hobby that is not as a business im not ready for that kind of stress lol. Other than the wilton courses they have at michaels what other options are there? Has anyone taught themselves basically through video or anything etc.? Just curious !
what would i need to start ? i dont know just an idea right now. Thanks !
I took Wilton courses I and II way back in 1982. Over time and experience, I've developed my own methods.
What you definitely need is bags (I like the disposable bags because you can see the frosting colors through them.)
a few couplers
absolutely tips 18 or 16 and 3 or 2 ... at least two of each (I have about 10 of each) 18 & 3 are open star tips and 3 & 2 are writing tips.
You should have a turntable (a rubbermaid one is fine). it just makes spinning the cake around easier for you to do your work.
You need some paste food coloring.
You can find these at Wal Mart, AC Moore, Michaels, and Hobby Lobby. there are usually coupons available at those craft stores. You can print out AC Moore coupons on line. It's usually 40% off a single item.
I'm taking the class through Wilton's at Michaels. Purchasing books, reveiw this site and I read everyone's comments and helpful hints.
I thought the class at Michaels would be outrageous, but they are rather inexpensive. Depending on how deep you want to get into it depends on how much you will spend.
For Course 1, it is was half price of the normal class cost. For the first course, I paid $18.50. Check and see what special Wilton is offering at your local Michaels store. The price covers 1 day of class for four weeks. Mine is on Monday night.
The first night is going over what you will need. The second, third, fourth night you will need to make a simple cake and frost it. Not too much of an expense for a cake, but the instructor will let you know what you will need to have the basics.
The kit for Course 1 runs about $25.00 - I think... Michaels' runs coupons for 40% off bi-weekly or every week. You could save some money on the kit that way. Also, Hobby Lobby sells the Kit and also has 40% off coupons every other week. Check their website for the weekly specials and coupons. the kit comes with everything you will need. You may or may not need to buy extras... but that is up to you.
Even if you only take Course 1, it will give you enough encouragement and information to get you started. After that, you can decide if you want to continue with Course 2 & 3 and then 4 which covers Fondant & Gumpaste.
Personally, I had an idea of what to do... But the course and this website has helped me enjoy the dieing art of cake decorating.
Hope this helps answer some of your questions. If you decide you want to take a class it is well worth the moneys spent. Good Luck!
PS... You can do anything you put your mind too...
Just remember... everyone pays grocery store bakeries for substandard cakes all the time... I did and still do in a pinch... and I hate it when the cake isn't what I ordered... 
But, your friends and family will think you are a Geniusfor giving it your best shot! 
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