Cake Dummy Conundrum

Decorating By CherryBomb Updated 1 Jul 2007 , 2:30pm by lflowermoon

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CherryBomb Posted 30 Jun 2007 , 11:20pm
post #1 of 12

This weekend, I've had planned to make up a few display cakes to build my wedding portfolio. I ordered some dummies from Dallas Foam and had read here that you can just throw fondant right on top. The problem is that the edges on the dummy are so sharp that they keep ripping through. I tried rolling them around on the counter to soften them up but it hasn't seemed to help. Someone, please, clue me in here! icon_eek.gif

11 replies
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miriel Posted 30 Jun 2007 , 11:24pm
post #2 of 12

I press the top edges of the dummy on the table to soften them. You can also carve them slightly if you prefer that.

Spritz water on the dummy before applying the fondant so it sticks.

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missnnaction Posted 30 Jun 2007 , 11:31pm
post #3 of 12

you can also take a file (I used a finger nail file) or sand paper to sand the edges down.

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CherryBomb Posted 30 Jun 2007 , 11:37pm
post #4 of 12

I thought about carving it but I was worried that all the little styrofoam balls would fall apart.

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miriel Posted 30 Jun 2007 , 11:41pm
post #5 of 12

I use a heat tool like this one to carve it. No mess: http://www.misterart.com/g5824/FloraCraft-The-Styro-Wonder-Cutter-Plus.htm?WT.mc_n=froogle&WT.mc_t=CPC&WT.mc_id=5824

Got it at a craft store using a 40% off coupon icon_smile.gif

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Chef_Rinny Posted 30 Jun 2007 , 11:56pm
post #6 of 12

I file mine a little then rinse them and they're good to go!

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CherryBomb Posted 1 Jul 2007 , 12:19am
post #7 of 12

I just tried the nail file. It worked like a charm and really got the edges smooth. Unfortunately, my fondant is still cracking. I guess it's time to go bang my head against the wall.

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beccakelly Posted 1 Jul 2007 , 1:40am
post #8 of 12

is it wilton fondant? i use it for my displays and it usually cracks in places. as soon as i see a crack or tear forming i rub shortening into it. i always have some at hand so i can act quickly. if you catch it fast enough it will rub back together. you could also try rubbing it on the counter before you roll it out to help. mine were just for pics, so if i had one that cracked too badly, no problem! i just turned it around so thats the back. i only use satin ice on real cakes and it never cracks like wilton.

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leah_s Posted 1 Jul 2007 , 11:40am
post #9 of 12

Ditto the previous poster. I only use Wilton fondant for dummy cakes. I would never eat or sell a cake with that junk on it. SatinIce however is great for real cake. Having said that, if you are using the Wilton for dummies, (haha) knead in a good glob of shortening before you roll it out, to keep it pliable.

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berryblondeboys Posted 1 Jul 2007 , 12:17pm
post #10 of 12

Just remember when filing styrofoam to wear a mask (no kidding). Inhaling styrofoam is dangerous... as it is for babies to chew on cups.....

Melissa

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CakeL8T Posted 1 Jul 2007 , 2:13pm
post #11 of 12

For my styrofoam dummies I use the Wilton Fondant as well and don't roll it real thin, leave it pretty thick. It will cover better and won't tear at the corners. Good Luck
Carrie

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lflowermoon Posted 1 Jul 2007 , 2:30pm
post #12 of 12

I used a small rolling pin to smooth the edges of the dummies, but I also put a thin layer of buttercream ( with Crisco). Even having a large cake ( 20" ) I was able to cover it with Wilton fondant ( in only one move).

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