I bought some cake dummies and began to file the edges down with an emery board and some small chunks fell off. I wasn't really applying any pressure at all. Is there a trick to this? This was a square dummy, BTW. Maybe I will have more luck with the round ones.

What is best to use to fill in the 'holes'? Thanks!

Can I ask why you were filing the edges? I am not really knowledgeable about dummies and didn't realize you were supposed to file the edges. The one time I used one, I used it as is.

If the edges are sharp you need to soften them so that they don't tear fondant.

I don't file them, I simply take the dummy and press the edge of it against a table top to help soften it. You can also take a wooden rolling pin (wilton has one with a handle) that you can roll around the edges.

I have found that the quality of the foam will determine whether or not some little chunks fall off when using sandpaper to soften the edges. If the chunks are really noticable I soften the edges some more by pushing against the countertop. If the depressions are still there I fill them with some icing before I put the fondant on.

The best thing I've found for filing dummies is the hard, white, sparkly styrofoam found in the floral department. Break off a chunk and file away. It works beautifully, but is quite messy. I recommend doing it outside. Determine the direction of the wind first, otherwise you may wind up with a face full of styrofoam!

I also usually just rub it against the counter. If I do file them, I use the finest disposable ones.

All great ideas. Thanks everyone. I bought quite a few dummies (since it cost so much to ship) so I'll have to practice and see what works best before I move on to the others.

hey! just a tip, i purchased thru ebay 4 tiers of dummy cakes for only $15 each set and free shipping! AND it delivered in 3 days!!! good luck with your dummy!

I've used the rolling pin that Texas Sugar mentioned.

Have you ever sanded them down? I prefer to sand them down, and if by any chance I take a small piece off, I uually fill it in with shortening, but if its a big hole, you can take a piece of fondant and reconstitute the dummy with it.