Elegant Ribbon Wedding Cake Decor: A Step-By-Step Guide

Adding ribbon to a wedding cake is a great way to add colour and elegance, or to incorporate the wedding colours. There are several ways to do this, including wrapping the ribbon around the base of each layer of the cake, or creating a ribbon waterfall, with strands of ribbon falling between each layer. When using ribbon with buttercream cakes, it is important to ensure that the ribbon does not come into direct contact with the buttercream, as this can cause staining. To avoid this, you can use a strip of parchment paper, or waxed paper, between the cake and the ribbon. The ribbon can be secured with glue, royal icing, or pins.

Using wax paper to prevent ribbon discolouration

To prevent ribbon discolouration on a wedding cake, wax paper can be used as a protective backing. The wax paper acts as a barrier between the ribbon and the cake, preventing any oil or grease from the cake from seeping through and causing stains. This method is especially useful for buttercream cakes, as the ribbon can quickly become stained by the oils in the frosting.

To use wax paper effectively, cut a strip of wax paper to the same length as your ribbon, and slightly shorter in height. Wrap this around the cake first, securing it with a piece of cello tape. Then, wrap your ribbon around the cake, over the wax paper. This will create a barrier that prevents the ribbon from touching the cake directly.

Another method is to iron the wax paper onto the back of the ribbon before applying it to the cake. Place the wax paper wax-side down on the ribbon and iron over it, so the wax transfers to the ribbon. This will make the ribbon grease-resistant. You can also try pulling the ribbon through folded wax paper a few times to achieve the same effect.

Using wax paper with ribbon on a wedding cake ensures that the ribbon doesn't absorb any grease or moisture, keeping it looking neat and uniform. This technique is a great way to add colour and style to a wedding cake without the worry of discolouration.

Attaching ribbon to buttercream

Attaching ribbon to a buttercream cake can be tricky because the grease from the frosting can bleed through the ribbon, causing unsightly stains. Here are some tips and tricks to help you successfully attach ribbon to a buttercream cake:

Choose the Right Ribbon

Select a ribbon that is specifically designed for cake decorating, or use a double-sided satin ribbon. Satin ribbons are more likely to absorb grease and get stained, so consider using a textured ribbon or a ribbon made from a different material, such as craft ribbon or wrapping ribbon. If you do choose a satin ribbon, you can treat it with wax paper to create a barrier against the grease.

Prepare the Ribbon

Cut the ribbon to the desired length, making sure to allow for a small overlap where the ends will meet. If you are using a satin ribbon, iron wax paper onto the back of the ribbon before attaching it to the cake. This will help to protect the ribbon from grease stains. You can also try spraying the ribbon with a no-stick spray, which will saturate the ribbon and prevent discolouration when it comes into contact with the buttercream. Alternatively, you can coat the ribbon with shortening, which will prevent dye from leaching out onto the cake and will also ensure that the buttercream soaks through evenly.

Apply the Ribbon to the Cake

Chill your buttercream-covered cake in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before applying the ribbon. This will make it easier to handle and will help the ribbon adhere better. When you are ready to apply the ribbon, take the cake out of the fridge and apply a small amount of buttercream to the area where the ribbon will go, usually the bottom of the cake. You can also apply a strip of parchment or baking paper to the cake first and then attach the ribbon on top of that, which will help to keep the ribbon from touching the buttercream directly. Use a non-toxic glue stick or small dabs of royal icing to attach the ribbon to itself, being careful not to get any on the outside surface.

Finishing Touches

If you need to attach the ribbon in the back to make it stick, you can use a small amount of royal icing or buttercream, or even a piece of scotch tape. You can also use straight pins to hold the ribbon in place, but be sure to remove them before serving the cake. To hide the seam where the ends of the ribbon meet, you can use a flower or other decoration.

By following these steps, you can successfully attach ribbon to a buttercream cake and create a beautiful and elegant finish.

Attaching ribbon to fondant

When attaching ribbon to fondant, it is important to ensure that the ribbon does not absorb moisture or grease from the fondant, which can cause staining. One way to prevent this is to use a double-sided satin ribbon backed with a non-absorbent paper such as waxed or contact paper. Alternatively, you can iron waxed paper onto the back of the ribbon before applying it to the cake.

There are several methods for attaching ribbon to fondant. One way is to use small dabs of royal icing to act as a glue. You can also use piping gel, although this may soak through the ribbon and be more noticeable. Another option is to use edible glue, although it is important to be careful not to use too much to avoid seepage. Some people also suggest using water to dampen the ribbon before attaching it to the cake, as it sticks as it dries.

When attaching ribbon to fondant, it is recommended to start by wrapping the ribbon around the base of each layer of the cake. This provides a good starting point for further decorations. If you are using multiple ribbons on one tier, you may need to use more adhesive to prevent the ribbon from sagging.

Ribbon waterfall technique

The ribbon waterfall technique is a simple way to add a finishing touch to your wedding cake. It creates a waterfall effect with ribbons draping down the side of the cake. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving this look:

Start by cutting your ribbons to match the length of your cake, ensuring you have enough extra length for draping. Secure one end of the ribbon to the top tier of the cake using sugar paste. You can also use a non-toxic glue stick or small dabs of royal icing as an adhesive.

Carefully drape the ribbon down the cake, allowing the strand to sit on each layer. Repeat this process, building up strands one by one, until you achieve a waterfall effect with ribbons cascading down the cake.

You can also attach decorations like fondant figures, crystals, or edible flowers to the strands for an even more luxurious look.

If you want to add a personal touch, consider making roses out of ribbon and attaching them to the cake. This extra detail will make your wedding cake truly unique and special.

By following these steps, you can create a stunning ribbon waterfall on your wedding cake that will impress your guests and make your celebration unforgettable.

Using pins to secure ribbon

Start by measuring and cutting your ribbon to size, ensuring that it overlaps slightly at the back of the cake. You can use a lighter or candle flame to carefully seal the edges of the ribbon and prevent fraying.

Then, hold the ribbon in place with a dressmaker's pin, pulling it taut as you wrap it around the cake. Secure the end of the ribbon with another pin. When the ribbon is firmly in place and stuck down, you can remove the pins and cut off any excess.

If you want to be extra cautious, you can apply a small amount of glue or royal icing to the ends of the ribbon before securing them with pins. This will ensure that the ribbon stays in place while the glue or icing dries.

Another option is to use a non-toxic glue stick to adhere the ribbon to itself. This method is ideal if you want to avoid any glue coming into direct contact with the cake.

Using pins to secure your ribbon will ensure a smooth and elegant finish to your wedding cake.

Frequently asked questions