Fondant tools. Part 3

 I want to give you some information on the use of the fondant tools that I listed in Part 2.

First I want to give you the list of basic supplies that can get you started without investing in too many items until you find out whether this is something that you really want to do.  For many years I did not get involved with fondant.  I always shied away from it. I told myself it was because  I did not like the look of it and that the taste was terrible.  Well, years ago the fondant did not taste very good. That is true. But I did not want to get involved in it because I was intimidated by the process.  There were very few outlets for this technique and little or no training in my area. But with the onset of the internet and the explosion of equipment that is available on the internet and in local craft stores. It is much easier for someone to get into fondant work.

When you first begin working with fondant, I suggest you begin making small flowers, ribbons, and cutouts. This way you will get used to using the medium. Once you get some confidence with this stage you can go on to covering a cake with fondant.

So to begin the process you should have a good work surface.  You can buy a fondant mat or you can use a nice smooth cutting board.  The bamboo is the best finish to work with because it is very smooth.




If you have a local craft store you can shop there to get

your supplies. Other wise you can buy on line

1. Cutting board: This is your work surface
   
2. Small rolling pin: To roll out your fondant
   
3. Box of cornstarch: This is used to dust on the work surface and the pin so that the fondant won't stick.
4.  this is similar to uing flour when rolling out pie crust. 
5.  Box of pre-made fondant: All you have to do is take it out of the box and knead it till it is pliable, just like children's clay or playdough.
   
6. Flower cutting set.You can choose from different flowers. They come with the directions for use.
   
   
7. Food past color to color the fondant. You need only to color enough for the flowers that you are going to practice making.  Keep the fondant in a plastic zip lock bag and an air tight container. Other wise it will dry out and get too hard to use.  You can however put the fondant in the microwave for about 7-8 seconds to pre soften the fondant if it starts to get too stiff. 
8. 2 OR 3 good paintbrushes
9. Dusting powder:This used on your petals to highlight and shade your flowers to make them look realistic
   
10. Ball tool. This is made for making flowers and shapes if you need to smooth the edges of the flowers and leaves. 

Now there is a kit sold by Wilton for Fondant and Gum paste flowers. I have not used this kit, but I will be in my next Adult Education Class that begins on Monday. I will be using it myself on Sunday first.  If I feel it is sufficient to begin your fondant experience I will re-post an update to Part 3.  

This will get you off to a good start.  You can make a lot of flowers from 2 pounds of fondant and you will get a lot of practice.



I will let you know how the kit worked.  Have fun and .....
Keep on Baking!!! Fondly, DCRose