Sometimes I see really beautiful scrolls on the sides of cakes. Is there any secrets to this? Or is it just a lot of practice? I am pretty good a following a line, but I dont know about freehanding anything!
Same here.....I use the press set. It's much easier then free handing. Maybe one of these years I'll be able to free hand but until then I'll use the press set.
I am not great at it but I find when I free hand scrolls that I use a thin consistancy buttercream and just start piping the shape of the scroll without hesitation. I find that if I go slow, my hand gets shakey and the lines are wobbley. If I just do it and go fast, the lines come out much smoother and nicer. The hardest part for me is being consistant on the size of each scroll. Seems like I start and they're smaller than when I finish.
Lots of practice helps too!
KimAZ
I also use the Wilton presses. When you cover them with icing nobody knows but you. And atleast this way they are all uniformed in their sizes. Not to mention makes it easier, and anything that makes life easier works for me! I dont look at it as cheating, I look at it as shortcuts. 
Just did a cake with scrolls. Actually was practicing for an upcoming wedding cake and the bride wants scrolls on one of the layers. Haven't had much experience doing them so gave it a try freehand. I think with a bit more practice they will be better. Thin icing works well but have to get a good rhythm going. Just like anything else though guess practice makes perfect. This is a good thread. Maybe others will be able to give some tips.
why would you call it "cheating"? A contractor isn't "cheating" by using a level to make sure his cut is straight. He isn't "cheating" by using electrical tools instead of hand tools.
Scrolls presses, icing tips, pastry bags, etc., are just tools of our trade.
Cheating? I dont' get it. 
oh i dont think it is cheating either....Just curious if there were other ways to do this besides the presses or freehanding. Look at these cakes, how do you think she does them? They are just so beautiful!
http://www.dessertworks.net/wdgCake.html
Wow! Beautiful cakes! I'd love to know how she does it too!
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