Can anyone tell me the ideal thickness of fondant when covering a cake? Also, any tricks on how to not get "bunches" at the base of the cake when covering? I am getting frustrated!! Thanks!
I think it's supposed to be about 1/8 - 1/4" thick (somebody correct me if I'm wrong....). I use 2" PVC pipe as a roller (cheap and I can cut it to whatever length I want). The end caps that go with that kind of pipe are 3/16" thick so I use them as thickness guides. Works well for me!
As for the ruffles at the lower edge, I read a great tip somewhere (don't remember where....) that if you place the cake on a smaller "riser" the ruffles will fall below the cake making smoothing it a lot easier. So for example, I put the cake up on a large can or bowl or something (being REALLY careful, of course!) before I lift the fondant. Once I get it smoothed and cut off the excess, I take it off the riser.
I roll mine anywhere between 1/8" to 1/4". Probably closer to 1/4"!
When you start smoothing or adhering the fondant to the cake gently pull out the "skirt" of fondant that is laying on the board or counter as you smooth it to the sides. This helps prevent pleating!
This is what works for me! Good luck! Oh, there are guides that you can buy to place on your rolling pin for different thicknesses.
Amy 
THANKS! I think my first problem is I was rolling my fondant too thin. I will have to try raising the cake to lay the fondant. I can imagine you have to be very careful. I envision my cake falling with the luck I have been having.
Hey leepat~Thank you for posting that video! I spent some time yesterday looking for Ateco's website but couldn't find it! Can you believe that??? 
I kept getting other places that sold their merchandise. All I wanted was information on one of their tips I have!
Your timing is perfect!!!! Thank you!!!
Amy
1/8 inch always works for me.
Letting the fondant hang helps in the
smoothing of the edges..Thicker fondant makes
less folds. 
I think I do about 1/8 or maybe a little more. I think rolling it out much larger than the cake is what helps me the most to not get pleats. I have tried elevating the cake, but it just doesnt work as well for me as doing it flat.
Quote by @%username% on %date%
%body%