Hi all! I'm learning to do this on my own (at the moment) and I've got a quick question...............When frosting a cake, is it better to frost the sides and get them smooth first or the top? Should I frost it all then smooth it out? Help! I want the frosting to be flat and smooth! Thanks for any and all replies! Sha

How to frost a cake using a spatula:

http://www.wilton.com/decorating/icing/using-a-spatula.cfm

Using an icing tip:

http://www.wilton.com/decorating/icing/using-decorating-tip-789.cfm

Viva paper towel (faux fondant) method:

http://www.cakecentral.com/article10-How-To-Create-Faux-Fondant-The-Paper-Towel-Method----Viva.html

Melvira Method:

http://forum.cakecentral.com/cake-decorating-ftopict-93051-.html

How to Professionaly Ice a Cake:

http://forum.cakecentral.com/cake-decorating-ftopict-82411-.html

HTH

Personally, I frost the top first (smoothing it out as much as possible as I go), then the sides. I use a crusting Buttercream. After frosing the cake let it crust over for about 10 minutes, then go back and smooth it all over.

. . . tonedna's video . . .

I was going to suggest tonedna's you tube vide but someone beat me to it. OR You can order Sugar Shack's video (she is a CC member named Sharon)!! She's awesome! Good luck.

I have to say I am a sworn member of the Melvira Method Club!!! LOL. I even show it to my student's in class...don't tell!!! It solved all my frosting issues and I swear by it...well...not swear...but it's the only method I use!!! Linda