Day 2: Offset Spatula

Once you've got your icing, you've got to have the right tool...and that, my friend, is the offset spatula.

 

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It really is the key when icing your cake to get that smooth look.  I actually have two of these 9 inch spatulas and one that is 11 inches that I use for larger cakes.  It's much easier to get the icing out of the bowl with the spatula instead of a regular kitchen knife.  You can also use the spatula to make patterns on a cake. 

1.

Here is a couple I did using what I call a spackling technique.  (Sorry for the poor photo!) The best way I know how to describe this is to "slap" the spatula against an iced cake.  This is great because you don't have to worry about trying to get it so smooth.  Then just garnish with fruits or flowers.

2.

I didn't do this cake, but this swirl technique is another easy one using the spatula.  This one is actually make fish scales, but you get the idea.

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3.

I did not do this cake either.  It was my cousin's wedding cake and I'm sorry I don't know the baker.  I'm gonna call it the swipe technique (yes, very professional, I know).  This is simple...just start at the bottom and swipe the spatula up going all around the cake.  Just make sure to wipe the spatula off after each swipe.

You can get these types of spatulas from any craft store such as Michael's, JoAnn's, or Hobby Lobby.