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Writer's pictureaudrey wilson

Essential Tools for Cake Decorating

Here's a list of the essential tools for decorating a cake. This list is incredibly helpful if you're new to decorating and are not sure where to start.


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A chef decorating a cake
Photo by Holly Stratton on Unsplash

When I started making cakes, I had no clue where to begin. YouTube tutorials helped a lot, and I started to improve very quickly. I even managed to get an internship at a bakery at the age of 15! While there, I learned many tips about decorating and using the equipment. I wanted to create a list of tools that I use every time I decorate to help those who started just like me: clueless but passionate.



Tool #1 - Cake Turn Table


A turn table makes decorating ten times more efficient. It's simple to use and ensures that your frosting goes on in a smooth, even layer.


cake turn table



Tool #2 - Offset Spatula


Offset spatulas are excellent for frosting and adding details. You can even use small paint spatulas to make your cake look painted! I recommend purchasing a small or medium-sized spatula, which is easier to work with and versatile for different cake sizes.



offset spatula



Tool #3 - Piping Bags


Piping bags are very simple to use but necessary for decorating. I usually keep two sizes: 12" and 16". The 12" bags are easier for smaller details, while the 16" bags are good for applying a crumb coat or simple piping. You can also use reusable piping bags if you'd like; I've linked some options below.



piping bags



Tool #4 - Couplers


Couplers are the greatest thing I have come across with decorating. You just screw them onto the bags before adding your tips. They're great because you can easily switch out tips while decorating instead of making a whole new piping bag.



couplers



Tool #5 - Flower Nails


Flower nails are the metal tools that are used to create icing flowers. They're fantastic because you can place a little sheet of parchment onto them, pipe your flower, and then slide it off. You can also stab the nail end into a piece of styrofoam and let it sit until the icing hardens. You can find these in most cake stores or online.



flower nails for cake decorating



Tool #6 - Food Dye


I like to use high-quality gel food dye when adding color to my frostings because you get vibrant colors from a small amount. They're more expensive than the water-based dyes from the grocery store, but they're a good investment. I like to use the 12-piece Americolor Student Kit.



Americolor food dye



Tool #7 - Bench Scraper


This is a tool that I got about two years ago, and it has completely changed the way that I decorate. I use it alongside an offset spatula to smooth out edges and eliminate any air bubbles on the cake. It also makes cleaning frosting and junk off the counter super easy.



bench scraper



Tool #8 - Bowl Scraper


I absolutely hate having to make more frosting because I've underestimated how much I actually needed. Bowl scrapers ensure I get every last bit of frosting out of the bowl, so I usually don't have to make more!



bowl scraper



Let me know what your essential tools are for decorating!




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1 Comment


sophiamariecrafter
Jan 19

This is so helpful, I’ve got so many birthdays coming up and I have no idea where to start! Definitely looking into those flower nails, so many cakes on my Pinterest have those little roses and I’m DYING to try them out! 10/10

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