every time i try dusting pearl dust or anything on fondant it doesn't stick and is a waste of time to even try. am i doing something wrong? i am doing a pillow cake in 2 weeks and would really like the whole thing to be shimmery

Dust it right after you covered the cake with fondant, or air brush it for a very shimmery effect

Manna4's right - dust it immediately after you cover the cake. I got one of those fancy dust brushes last time I bought some dust and Im amazed at how evenly and effortlessly the dust covers the dry fondant - I did not use alcohol or any liquid, but I think the key was doing it on the fresh fondant.

I posted a reply, but it must not have gone through.

Use vodka or lemon extract to make a paint, that will make it bright and lustery as you want.

Don't use vanilla as it dries sticky.