Cake Decorating - How to get the image you want on a cake

I get a lot of requests for custom cakes and it's always tricky to try and replicate a logo.  Here are some tips you can use to try it for yourself.  It's not too difficult but does take some practice and a little patience.

Materials:
Fondant
Rolling pin
Food coloring paste
lemon juice
paint brushes
Royal icing
Pastry Bags and tips
Pizza cutter
Toothpick

First, print out the image you want to use. Roll out a piece of fondant and place the image on top. Trim around the image using either a pizza cutter or Exacto knife to get the shape you need.

Second, using a toothpick, trace the details of the image. Make sure to press hard enough that you make an imprint on the fondant. This will give you a guideline to use when you "paint".

Third, dilute the food coloring with a little lemon juice and paint the image. The lemon juice will evaporate and leave the color behind. Don't use water. Water acts as a glue when it touches fondant and will cause it to become very sticky.

Last, apply royal icing to the image to outline what you need and help bring the image to life.