So, I'm going to attempt tapering a square can (larger on top/smaller on the bottom) and was wondering if there are any tricks to getting each side straight? This is not for a topsy turvy cake, just a 2 tier, square cake, with tapered sides. I know that I should carve it upside down, from what I've read, but is there anything else I should be keenly aware of? Thanks, in advance, for any help you can give me.

easy.

1) you'll do it UPSIDE DOWN to make the cutting easier.

2) need 3 cake boards precut as follow: (measurements given are examples only and you will have to determine your needed sizes!)

a) size of the top (so like 10x10)

b) size of MIDDLE (so like 8x

c) (size of bottom (so like 6x6)

3) put first layer of cake on largest square

4) add middle size square

5) add next layer

6 add smallest square (being careful to align all squares -- a center dowel will help with this)

7) use squares to guide the knife.

8 FLIP and it's done.

Doug, seriously, you never cease to amaze me! You're always right there with a helpful tip for anyone that needs one. I appreciate the help and the response. You just took the worry out of my cake carving. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!