Attaching Ribbons To A Cake Server For Your Wedding

Adding ribbons to a cake server for a wedding is a great way to incorporate the wedding colours and add a unique touch to your special day. There are many ways to attach ribbons to a cake, including using wax paper, water, glue, or fondant. You can also create a ribbon waterfall effect or make gorgeous ribbon roses to attach to the cake. This introduction will cover various methods for attaching ribbons to a cake server, ensuring a secure and elegant finish.

Using wax paper to prevent ribbon staining

While wax paper is a great way to prevent ribbon staining on a cake, it can be tricky to work with. Here are some tips and tricks for using wax paper effectively to prevent staining when attaching ribbons to a wedding cake:

Preparing the Wax Paper and Ribbon

Before you begin, cut your wax paper to the correct size. The wax paper should be the same length as your ribbon but slightly narrower. This ensures that the wax paper doesn't peek out from behind the ribbon. You can also cut the wax paper to the desired height, making it a little shorter than the ribbon so that it doesn't show.

When you're ready to apply the wax paper, place the ribbon face down on your work surface. Then, place the wax paper on top of the ribbon, with the wax side facing down towards the ribbon. You may want to place a thin tea towel or a sheet of regular paper over your ironing board and the wax paper to protect your equipment from any melting wax.

Ironing the Wax Paper

Now, it's time to iron the wax paper onto the ribbon. Set your iron to a medium or medium-high heat setting. Be careful not to make it too hot, as this can melt the wax paper. Iron over the wax paper, transferring the wax to the ribbon. You may need to iron both sides of the ribbon for maximum protection.

To check if the wax has adhered to the ribbon, feel the back of the ribbon. It should have a slight waxy feeling. You can also try peeling the wax paper off; if it sticks to the ribbon a little, the wax has likely transferred.

Alternative Methods

If ironing doesn't work for you, there are a few other methods you can try. One option is to use double-sided tape to attach the wax paper to the ribbon, trimming any excess. Another suggestion is to rub a small amount of Crisco or shortening onto the ribbon with your fingers, creating an even grease coating that prevents spotty staining.

Attaching the Ribbon to the Cake

Once your ribbon is prepared, it's time to attach it to your wedding cake. If using buttercream, ensure the cake is cold, as this will make it easier to handle. Wrap the ribbon around the cake, using a non-toxic glue stick or small dots of royal icing to adhere the ribbon to itself.

By following these steps and adapting the methods to your specific needs, you can effectively use wax paper to prevent ribbon staining on your wedding cake.

Draping ribbon for a waterfall effect

Adding a ribbon waterfall to your wedding cake is a simple way to create a stunning, elegant effect. This technique can be used to complement the wedding colours or the bride's chosen ribbon. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving this look:

Firstly, measure and cut your ribbon to match the length of your cake, allowing extra length for draping. Secure the ribbon to the top tier of the cake using sugar paste, royal icing, or a non-toxic glue stick. You can also use a small piece of fondant with a dot of water to attach the ribbon.

Next, drape the ribbon down the cake, allowing the strand to sit on each layer. Continue building up the strands, one layer at a time, until you achieve a beautiful waterfall effect with the ribbons cascading down the sides of the cake.

To finish, you can add decorations to the cake, such as fondant figures, crystals, or edible flowers and foliage, to enhance the overall design.

It is important to note that if you are using a buttercream cake, you should line it with parchment paper first to prevent the ribbon from absorbing grease and getting stained. The cake should also be cold when applying the ribbon to make it easier to handle.

With these simple steps, you can create a breathtaking ribbon waterfall effect on your wedding cake that will surely impress your guests!

Using glue dots to attach ribbon

Step 1: Prepare the Ribbon

First, ensure you have the correct length of ribbon to wrap around the cake server comfortably. Cut the ribbon to size, allowing for a slight overlap at the ends. You can seal the cut edges of the ribbon by using the flame of a lighter or candle to carefully melt the edges and prevent fraying.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Server

Clean and dry the surface of the cake server thoroughly to ensure the ribbon adheres properly. If you wish to add an extra protective layer between the cake server and the ribbon, you can line it with parchment paper first. Cut the parchment paper to size, ensuring it is slightly shorter than the ribbon so that it doesn't show. Secure the parchment paper to the cake server using a small piece of cello tape.

Step 3: Attach the Ribbon

Now, take your glue dots and apply them to the back of the ribbon. Space them out evenly along the length of the ribbon, ensuring you have enough glue dots to create a secure hold. Gently press the ribbon onto the cake server, starting at one end and working your way along. Ensure the ribbon is straight and smooth as you attach it.

Step 4: Secure the Ends

When you reach the end, overlap the ribbon slightly and press down to secure it. You can cut any excess ribbon for a neat finish. If you need to, you can also use a small amount of royal icing or fondant to secure the ends of the ribbon at the back of the cake server.

Using glue dots is a quick and easy way to attach ribbon to a wedding cake server, and the glue dots can be easily removed when it's time to cut the cake.

Creating a ribbon border

To create a ribbon border, you will first need to measure the ribbon against the cake, cutting it to size. If you are creating a border on each layer of the cake, it is recommended to use a ribbon with a width of 25mm to 38mm. If you have any other decorations, such as fondant figures or crystals, add them to the cake before applying the ribbon.

There are several methods to attach a ribbon to a cake, depending on the type of icing used. For fondant cakes, you can use small dabs of royal icing or edible glue to attach the ribbon. If using buttercream icing, it is trickier due to the greasy nature of the frosting. One method is to use a double-sided satin ribbon backed with a non-absorbent paper, such as waxed or contact paper. Iron the back of the ribbon with waxed paper before attaching it to the cake. You can also use a glue stick or piping gel to attach the ribbon.

Another technique to prevent the ribbon from staining due to the oils in the buttercream is to first line the cake with parchment paper. Cut the parchment paper to the same length as your ribbon but reduce the height by about 1/8 of an inch so that it doesn't show. Wrap the parchment paper around the cake and secure it with cello tape. Then, wrap your ribbon around the parchment paper and secure it with a non-toxic glue stick.

For a simple and cost-effective method, you can dip the ribbon in water, remove any excess, and then wrap it around the cake. As the ribbon dries, it will stick to the cake, creating a neat border.

When attaching the ribbon, ensure that any seams or raw edges are at the back of the cake. You can use a lighter or candle to carefully seal the edges of the ribbon to prevent fraying.

Using pins to secure the ribbon

Another option is to use pearl-topped pins as decorative accents. You can insert the pins through the ribbon and into the cake server, creating a visually appealing border along the ribbon's edge. This method adds a touch of elegance to your wedding cake server while also securing the ribbon in place.

If you are concerned about the pins coming into contact with the cake, you can try combining this method with other attachment techniques. For instance, you could apply a thin layer of buttercream or royal icing to the back of the ribbon before pinning it to the cake server. This will help to ensure that the ribbon stays in place, even if the pins are removed.

When using pins to secure the ribbon, it is important to exercise caution and consider the safety of your guests. While the pins add a decorative touch, they should be removed before serving the cake to avoid any accidental ingestion. Additionally, ensure that the pins are made of a food-safe material and are sterile to prevent any potential health risks.

By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can effectively use pins to secure the ribbon on your wedding cake server, creating a beautiful and elegant display.

Frequently asked questions