I am BRAND NEW to decorating cakes. Infact, I am only to the point of thinking about it, I haven't even done one yet! The most I have done is actually put frosting on a cake. I graduated college last year and I am really wanting to fill my time again, and this seems like a fun and rewarding challenge. I am hesitant to start buying anything to make cakes with because I do not want to spend my money on a bunch of things I do not need at this point. If anyone could fill me in on the basic tools needed to BEGIN learning this art, I would be very grateful! I need to buy tips and a few pans, but I would like to only buy a few things to make sure this is something I would enjoy. Any hints about what are the best sizes of these things for beginners?? Thanks!! jill
Hello and welcome! I'm fairly new to this sit too but have been decorating for a loooong time 
When I first started I got a couple of 8" round pans and a couple 9" rounds. Also a 9x13 sheet pan. You'd be surprised what you can do with just these sizes.
I also went to the craft store and picked up a Wilton decorating kit. I want to say it was Class 1 but it was too long ago and the Practice board set. These came with tips, spatulas, nails, etcs. There wern't any classes in my area at the time and I fould the practice board to be most helpful.
I hope this helps you on your journey. Can't wait to see what others started with.
Hi there, and welcome.
I understand that you want to buy only the basics to see if you like it but, let me tell you, cake decorating is addictive!!!!!! and now that you have found this site, you'll want to try to make all the cakes you see here!
I also suggest the Wilton tool caddy. It has tips, bags, nails, disposable bags, spatula, etc.
http://www.wilton.com/store/site/product.cfm?id=3E30BE52-475A-BAC0-588FEBD8D8DC2DD3&fid=3E32CA30-475A-BAC0-512F6BB5C28339F5
There are also some books for begginers (they show how to make flowers, etc.)
Good luck and enjoy!!!!
I started about 6 years ago and just started taking wilton classes last fall. I learned a lot on my own . I just bought a beginners tip set and followed the instuctions inside of it. I think I spent $10. Wilton course 1 is a great start also and isn't expesive and you get all the beginner tips. Hope this helps. 
I think you should check out your local Michaels and inquire about the Wilton classes. They are cheap and fun and it will certainly give you an idea of what you need. It will also help you know if you really want to go ALL THE WAY! I tool the first two courses ten years ago, baked a few cakes and forgot about it. My daughter, who is now 11, dragged me once again to the Wilton courses, and I'm enjoying it so much now (maybe because I have someone to bake with). Next week we start Course 3. I would encourage you to at least take Course 1. Good luck!
Hmmm let me see... when I started, I bought a pack of 10-inch cake boards, had cheapo 9-inch pie pans , a hand-held mixer ($12), a can of lavender color mist, blue cake sparkles and Wilton's 25-piece decorating set.
So here I was, no classes, no clue to holding a decorating bag etc. but was very willing to learn. This was 5 months ago and my first decorated cake was done for New Year's 2007 (in my gallery). I've learned a lot in those 5 months. Goodluck and hope you do well
Welcome Jill! I am still learning myself but I know one thing-get alot of printing paper and make sure you have ink because you will be printing out alot of recipes and instructions and such here. There is so much to learn and do. Good luck in everything you do!
wow...6 responses already...this website is awesome. Thanks for all of the recommendations. Unfortunately our Michaels closed a while back and the closest is an hour away. With gas prices you can bet I will not be attending. Anway...you have all given me great advice and I thank you very much. I am liking this already 
have a great weekend! jill
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