I'm so excited!!! 
I just got a new Kitchen-Aid stand mixer for an engagement gift (it's red!)!!!! You can imagine how ecstatic I am!!
Now...I need to know....does anyone have any tips about using it!? I've never used one before, so it will be a nice break for my arm, and if anyone has any little tips or tricks to share it would be great!
The KA's are supposed to be adjusted or aligned right when you buy them but I would check to make sure your paddle attachment does not rub the bowl.
1. If you have a vinyl coated paddle hand wash it. I just had to replace mine because it got a bunch of corrosion under the vinyl and swelled up then split.
2. A damp dishcloth over the top of the mixer will help keep the flour, powdered sugar, etc from coating your kitchen with a lovely white dust.
3. The pour shield thingy hasn't been much help to me so I wouldn't waste my money on it.
4. If you have your eye on attachments put them in your bridal registry! 
5. Have a ball with your fun new toy!!!
3. The pour shield thingy hasn't been much help to me so I wouldn't waste my money on it.
4. If you have your eye on attachments put them in your bridal registry!
I totally agree with Franluvsfrosting. The shield thingy is just a nusense. I end up making more of a mess.
I have used the pasta roller attachment to make some neat fondant strips. It does a nice job.
1. I make mmf in mine (I know some are completely against this practice), but if you do, remember to use speed 2 only! (That's the speedh for the Artisan version -- don't know about bigger versions. It's the bread dough speed. Never go off that speed when making mmf, and you won't have problems (I never have.)
2. Add liquids first for cakes. You won't have to scrape the glop off the bottom during mixing.
Hmmmm, not sure why this posted twice!! Sorry about that!
Wow....thanks for all of the tips! I just returned from vacation and had to check the forums quick!!
I don't have the shield...and now I don't think I will get it! The towel idea sounds great, I got PS all over my counter the first time using it!! 
I'll give the dime trick a shot and see how that goes.
I've already read the manual...doesn't have much, but the mixing speed guidelines seem good.
I'm so excited to keep trying, I have a cake to make this week, so it's gonna be fun!!
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