I working on doing some fondant pleating around the base of a small cake. I get the pleats made and when I go to put it around the base it cracks or tears . What I am I doing wrong?

It sounds like your fondant is too dry. Try adding shortening to soften it and try to work fast so it isn't dry by the time you try to get it onto the cake. hth

I add or use straight Choco-Pan for details and covering cakes now. It lasts a lot longer without getting so dry looking, and tastes better! Also, how thick are you rolling your fondant?

If doing pleating make sure you add tylose to your fondant. The paste should be soft (not very) and pliable. Try to work very fast to avoid any breakages and remember to roll your paste thinly.