![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/ff954b_f6002f9286bb4e5db1bee1ec2eed509f~mv2_d_4240_2832_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_980,h_655,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/ff954b_f6002f9286bb4e5db1bee1ec2eed509f~mv2_d_4240_2832_s_4_2.jpg)
tips & tricks
when making cakes for the first time it is best to start with something easy and achievable. Less is more here. A little bit of piping can go a long way. Look at some of my cakes for ideas. here are some essential tools for decorating-
>offset spatulas: great for smoothing buttercream
>spoons- add texture to frosting
>fun sprinkles- to add colour
>cookie cutters- to make fondant/gum paste decorations
>piping bags- to add detail (more advanced)
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/ff954b_62c986d49c134cf0af07d8e6842a820a~mv2_d_4240_2832_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_1754,h_734,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/ff954b_62c986d49c134cf0af07d8e6842a820a~mv2_d_4240_2832_s_4_2.jpg)
A good way to start decorating cakes for beginners is to cut out fondant shapes and letters. So simple, yet impressive. Add sprinkles on the side of the cake to add colour and texture.
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/ff954b_d05f73bea76448a3a1ca559a2d0f90a6~mv2_d_4240_2832_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_1100,h_735,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/ff954b_d05f73bea76448a3a1ca559a2d0f90a6~mv2_d_4240_2832_s_4_2.jpg)
Piling chocolates on top of each other can make the cake look taller and very impressive.
Chocolate drips break up the decoration and frosting to make the cake look more interesting. Try different lengths of drips for texture.
Smear different colours of frosting together for a contemporary finish.
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/ff954b_0a46b4ed108649159bcd0b93eba8cc73~mv2_d_4240_2832_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_870,h_581,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/ff954b_0a46b4ed108649159bcd0b93eba8cc73~mv2_d_4240_2832_s_4_2.jpg)
Chocolate curls and shavings can add a yummy crunch and texture to any dessert. Not only are these impressive but are super easy and delicious.