How To: Decorate a Custom Cake

Michelle Perotta-Lynch is a toy designer who takes her talents to the oven with intricately designed – and deliciously decorated – cakes. She uses a variety of tools and techniques to do so, and has shared some of her favorites with Patch. 

First I create a mini consultation with the person and then I start thinking.

Sometimes I will sketch on the spot or sometimes I think about it for a little while and then start sketching.  It usually comes to me pretty quickly after talking to the client. Once I get the design, I show the client and make any charges they would like. 

I start sculpting little details about two days before, the little details are what I love the most. 

I usually sculpt using fondant or gum paste which is white and I start dying my colors. I did take some color theory classes in college so I really enjoy mixing & matching  colors.  Sometimes I also hand paint some of the figures for added detail.  

Once all of the details are completed all thats left to do is bake and cover the cakes with fondant. 

Then I attach all the decorations, take photos and hope everyone enjoys the design – and the cake!