Diy Wedding Cake Stand: Elevate Your Cake With Plates

A wedding cake stand is a great DIY project that can be done on a budget. You can make a simple and inexpensive cake stand by using a plate, a candlestick, and some glue. First, gather your supplies, making sure to clean and dry them thoroughly. Then, turn your plate over and place some glue on the top of the candlestick before pressing it gently into the middle of your plate. Remove any excess glue, spin the plate to ensure it's centered, and let it dry. You can also make a wooden cake stand by assembling wooden plaques, a candlestick, and wooden beads.

Choosing the right plate

First and foremost, the size of the plate is important. Consider the desired size of your cake and choose a plate that is proportionate. A larger plate can accommodate a bigger cake and provide more stability, while a smaller plate might be more suitable for a compact cake or if you want the cake stand to have a more delicate appearance.

The shape of the plate is also a key factor. Round plates are the most traditional and classic option, but you could also experiment with other shapes such as hexagon or square plates for a more modern or unique look. The shape of the plate can also influence the overall stability of the cake stand, especially if you plan to create a tiered stand.

The material of the plate is another important consideration. Common materials include glass, ceramic, wood, and metal. Each material offers a different aesthetic and can complement your wedding theme in various ways. For example, a glass or mirrored plate can give a sleek and elegant look, while a wooden plate might be better suited for a rustic or farmhouse-style wedding.

When choosing a plate, also think about the colour and design. A simple, solid-coloured plate can provide a classic base for your cake, allowing the cake itself to be the focal point. On the other hand, you might opt for a plate with an intricate pattern or interesting details, adding a touch of whimsy or elegance to your cake display. Consider your wedding colour scheme and choose a plate that either complements or contrasts with it to create a stunning visual effect.

Lastly, don't forget to consider the height and weight of the plate. If you plan to create a tiered cake stand or add other decorations, choose a plate that has enough height to provide a good base. Additionally, consider the weight of the plate, especially if you are using fragile materials like glass or ceramic. You want to ensure that the plate is sturdy enough to support the weight of the cake and any additional decorations.

Using glue to fix the plate to a candlestick

Materials:

• Plate (choose a design and size that fits your wedding theme and cake size)
• Candlestick (select a style and height that complements your plate)
• Strong glue (such as E-6000 or Gorilla Glue)
• Food-safe glue, such as Dap (optional but recommended)

Instructions:

• Clean the plate and candlestick with a damp cloth to ensure the surfaces are free of dust or grease. Allow them to dry completely.
• Apply a thick layer of strong glue, such as E-6000 or Gorilla Glue, to the rim of the candlestick. You can also add a small amount of glue to the centre of the candlestick for extra support.
• Place the candlestick in the centre of the plate and hold it steady for a few seconds to ensure adhesion.
• Allow the glue to dry completely before handling or adding any decorations.
• (Optional) If you are concerned about the food safety of the glue, consider using a food-safe glue like Dap. Apply a small amount of Dap around the rim of the candlestick before placing it on the plate.

Your DIY wedding cake stand is now ready to be used! You can further decorate it with ribbons, glitter, or other embellishments to match your wedding theme.

Remember to consider the weight of your cake when choosing the plate and candlestick, and always ensure the stand is stable before placing the cake on top. Enjoy creating your unique wedding cake stand!

Painting the stand

If you are painting a wooden cake stand, start by lightly sanding the surface with fine-grit sandpaper. This will create a smooth base for the paint to adhere to and remove any imperfections. After sanding, wipe down the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust. If the wood is porous, consider using a primer to create an even base for the paint.

For a glass or ceramic cake stand, you may want to apply a primer designed for glossy surfaces to ensure that the paint adheres properly. You can find specialised primers and paints for glass and ceramic surfaces at your local craft store or hardware store.

Once your surface is prepared, it's time to start painting. Choose a paint colour that complements your wedding theme or colour palette. You can use spray paint or brush-on paint, depending on your preference and the material of your stand. If using spray paint, follow the instructions on the can and be sure to work in a well-ventilated area. If using a brush-on paint, use even, gentle strokes and allow adequate time for drying between coats.

Apply as many coats of paint as needed to achieve your desired coverage and finish. Allow the paint to dry completely between each coat. Once you have achieved your desired finish, seal and protect your paint job with a clear coat or polycrylic protective finish, especially if the stand will be used for food. This will ensure that your paint job is long-lasting and durable.

Remember to allow ample time for drying and curing before using your wedding cake stand. Enjoy creating a beautiful and personalised stand for your special day!

Adding decorations, such as beads or glitter

Adding beads or glitter to your wedding cake stand is a great way to elevate your design and make it stand out. Here are some tips to achieve this:

Using Beads:

• Opt for wooden beads for a unique touch: You can find wooden beads in various sizes and shapes, which can be spray-painted to achieve your desired colour.
• Beaded cake stands can be created using a variety of materials, such as metal or wood. Efavormart's Gold Grand Wedding Cake Stand features three layers of stacked crystals, adding a luxurious and glamorous feel to your wedding cake display.
• If you're looking for a simpler approach, you can stick beads to your existing cake stand. Fabric glue is ideal for adhering embellishments like beads to surfaces without the need for sewing.

Using Glitter:

• For a mess-free application, use a glitter cake spray to achieve an even coating.
• If you prefer a more controlled application, use a paintbrush to apply glue to specific areas of your cake stand before sprinkling glitter on top.
• Mod Podge Rocks features a DIY tutorial for creating a glitter cake plate with flower toppers, teaching you how to add glitter without creating a mess.
• For a more subtle shimmer, consider using glitter glue or paint to achieve a sparkling effect without the mess of loose glitter.

Remember to let your creative juices flow and experiment with different types of beads and glitter to find the perfect combination that aligns with your wedding theme and colour scheme!

Sourcing materials cheaply from thrift stores or the dollar store

Sourcing materials for your DIY wedding cake stand from thrift stores or the dollar store is a great way to save money and create a unique, personalised stand. Here are some tips for finding the necessary materials on a budget:

Plates and Platters

Thrift stores often have a wide selection of glass plates and platters that can be used as the base of your cake stand. Look for plates with a nice flat bottom, especially in the centre, to ensure stability. You can also try your local dollar store for affordable options. If you're using a plate with a pattern or design, consider choosing something that complements the wedding theme or colour scheme.

Candlesticks and Cups

Candlesticks are a versatile item that can be used as the base or pillar of your cake stand. They can be found at thrift stores and dollar stores for just a few dollars. Similarly, glass cups, dessert cups, and even old coffee cups can be used as bases or pillars, and are often available at thrift stores for a bargain.

Glue

A strong adhesive is crucial for assembling your cake stand. Look for glass glue or super glue at the dollar store, or opt for liquid nails construction adhesive or E6000 for a stronger bond. If you don't want to permanently attach the plate, you can use "tacky" putty to temporarily secure it to the base.

Spray Paint

To give your cake stand a cohesive look or a pop of colour, spray paint is a great option. White spray paint can give your stand a classic, elegant look, while gold spray paint adds a touch of glamour. Remember to spray paint in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. You can also use spray paint to transform glass items into faux milk glass cake stands.

Other Creative Finds

Keep an open mind while browsing thrift stores and dollar stores. Look for items like vintage chandeliers or light fixtures, which can be dismantled for creative projects. You might also find unique items like wicker baskets or wooden beads that can be upcycled into cake stand bases or pillars. Even old Disney fabric or scrapbook paper can be used to embellish and personalise your stand.

Frequently asked questions