I am trying to make a cake like this one
http://cakecentral.com/modules.php?name=gallery&file=displayimage&pid=963173

I have my cake baked, apples are made.....but how do I make the basket?

I keep trying to make the "wooden" pieces out of fondant, so I can leave them out to harden, but they keep falling apart!!

I'm tired, undercaffinated, and frustrated. Can someone please give me some hints?

Thanks!![/img][/url]

Try using gum-tex. It will make it stronger. It's what I us when I make bows.

I don't know what supplies you have available but the gumtex was a great suggestion. If you have any of the Wilton pre-made gumpaste, you can use a 50/50 mix of fondant and that. I do know from prior experience with just fondant that it can take several days to dry. I don't know how quickly you need the cake to be done but I lay mine on a cookie sheet dusted with corn starch and flip them over a few times a day until they're dry. As I said, it will take a few days just using fondant. I would think that with the slats you're making that they don't need to be as stiff as a board. It seems you just wouldn't want them to be limp and break. Hope these suggestions help.