Hi I have posted a few times about my trouble with icing a cake and making it smooth. I really need someones help I feel that if I had someone there teaching me I would be able to learn how to do it properly. If there is anyone who lives within 45 miles of Richmond that will be willing to teach me that will be great!!! I love to decorate cakes but I am having some trouble.

Are there no hobby/craft stores in your area that offer Wilton cake decorating classes? If not, have you considered the use of DVD tutorials?

Go to youtube and type in tonedna1 in the search box. She has a video on icing a cake smooth. It really just takes practice. I use the viva paper towel method (some use parchment paper or typing paper), I like the paper towel because it falls over the side of the cake. Then use a fondant smoother to get rid of the lines and dents. Works great. I have used the hot knife method but I dont like the way it sometimes leaves the icing,

Where are you in Richmond? I can help you once wedding season dies down.