I am using the cutter technique to make fondant roses and the Wilton directions say to use 1 tsp of meringue powder/1 tsp water. This can get expensive. What do you use?

I use clear vanilla extract. It only takes a small amount. I use a #1 art brush to apply it.
Sherry

Glue to adhere rose to cake? You could use the vanilla or how about watered down fondant? Water it to make a "wet paste".

Rose

Why not royal icing?

I just use water. The roses on my welcome home cake were made with MMF and water was all I used on them. They were done with the cutters as well.

water!! Its real cheap

Plain old water will do

Just want you to keep buying their products.

In course 3 they teach that you use vanilla. It doesn't take much. You can use water, but the vanilla will dry faster.