Cake decorating is more than just adding frosting—it’s a chance to turn a simple bake into something extraordinary.
Nelmari, owner of A Peace of Art, says, “Cake decorating is creative expression. It’s like painting or sculpting, only sweeter! With colors, textures, and designs, you can let your imagination run wild. Every cake becomes a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch.”
The best part? It’s edible art. Unlike most crafts, your creation doesn’t just look amazing—it tastes delicious too. There’s joy in making something that delights both the eyes and the taste buds.
“Decorating cakes is also relaxing and rewarding. Many people find the piping, smoothing, and finishing touches almost therapeutic,” adds Nelmari.
And of course, nothing beats the reactions. Watching friends and family light up when they see (and eat!) your creation is what makes it truly special.
So whether it’s for a birthday, a wedding, or just a fun weekend project, cake decorating is a hobby that brings creativity, joy, and a sprinkle of sweetness into every occasion.
What Do I Need for Cake Decorating?
Starting out in cake decorating doesn’t require a huge investment. Nelmari says that having the right tools and ingredients can make your experience more enjoyable and successful. Here are some basic essentials:
- Cake Tins: Different shapes and sizes allow for creative designs.
- Turntable: A cake turntable helps you smoothly ice and decorate your cake from all angles.
- Piping Bags and Nozzles: These are used to create various patterns, borders, and shapes with icing.
- Spatulas and Smoothers: Essential for applying and smoothing out icing or buttercream.
- Fondant and Cutters: Fondant is a pliable icing perfect for sculpting and covering cakes; cutters help create shapes and decorations.
- Food Colouring: Gel or liquid colourings allow you to customise the look of your icing, fondant, and decorations.
- Edible Decorations: Sprinkles, pearls, glitter, and flowers can add flair and texture.
- Brushes and Modelling Tools: For painting, shaping, and adding details to decorations.
You’ll also need basic ingredients like buttercream, ganache, marzipan, or royal icing, depending on the style you want to achieve.
How Do I Go About Cake Decorating?
- Bake and Prepare Your Cake:
- Start with a quality cake recipe. Once baked and cooled, level the cake to create a smooth surface for decorating.
- Apply a Base Layer:
- Spread a thin layer of buttercream or ganache to seal in crumbs (known as a crumb coat). Chill the cake before adding a final layer of icing.
- Choose Your Design:
- Decide on a theme or look. Sketch your design or gather inspiration from magazines, websites, or social media.
- Decorate:
- Use piping bags to create borders, flowers, or patterns. Apply fondant for a smooth finish or sculpted shapes. Add sprinkles, edible glitter, or themed toppers for extra flair.
- Final Touches:
- Step back and examine your cake. Use small brushes or modelling tools to add details, and clean up any edges for a professional look.
Remember, practice makes perfect.
Nelmari says, “Start simple and gradually try more advanced techniques as your confidence grows.”
A Peace of Art run cake decorating workshops on a regular basis. Follow them on social media or contact one of their offices to find out when the next course is being run.
Contact A Peace of Art for all your equipment and classes
Facebook: @apeaceofartcreativeartsandcraftsworkshops
Instagram: @apeaceofart
Port Elizabeth: 85 Main Road, Walmer. Tel: 072 304 0797
Bloemfontein: 7 Avenham Street, Avenham. Tel: 076 192 1637
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