Securing Ribbon Sash On Wedding Cakes: Tips And Tricks

Adding a ribbon sash to a wedding cake is a great way to add colour and elegance, and it's a simple way to incorporate the wedding colours. There are many ways to stick a ribbon sash to a wedding cake, and the method you choose will depend on the type of cake and ribbon you are using. For example, if you are using a buttercream cake, you will need to prevent the ribbon from absorbing the grease. One way to do this is to back the ribbon with waxed paper or contact paper. You can also use a non-toxic glue stick or small dots of royal icing to adhere the ribbon to the cake. Another option is to use pins to secure the ribbon, but this may not be the most comfortable option for some.

Using wax paper to prevent grease stains

To stick a ribbon sash to a wedding cake without grease stains, wax paper is a great option to ensure the ribbon doesn't come into direct contact with the cake. Here are some detailed steps to achieve this:

Cut the Wax Paper to Size:

Before you start, cut a strip of wax paper that is the same length as your ribbon. This will act as a barrier between the ribbon and the cake, preventing grease stains. The wax paper should be slightly narrower than the ribbon to ensure it doesn't show.

Attach the Wax Paper to the Ribbon:

There are a few methods to attach the wax paper to the ribbon. One popular method is to use an iron. Place the wax paper, wax-side down, on the back of the ribbon, and then gently iron over it. The heat will melt the wax, transferring it to the ribbon. Be sure to use a low heat setting and avoid using steam. You can place a thin towel between the iron and the ribbon if you're concerned about damaging the ribbon.

Another method is to simply wrap the wax paper around the cake first and then attach the ribbon on top. Use a piece of cello tape to adhere the wax paper to itself, ensuring it securely wraps around the cake.

Prepare the Cake:

If you're working with a buttercream cake, it's recommended to keep the cake cold as it will be easier to handle and apply the ribbon without messing up the frosting.

Attach the Ribbon:

Once the wax paper is in place, carefully wrap your ribbon around the cake. You can use a non-toxic glue stick or small dabs of royal icing to adhere the ribbon to itself. Avoid getting any frosting on the outside surface of the ribbon, especially if it's satin, as it will stain.

Final Touches:

If there is a seam where the ribbon ends meet, you may want to cover it with a flower or other decoration.

By using wax paper as a barrier and carefully attaching the ribbon, you can achieve a beautiful ribbon sash on your wedding cake without worrying about grease stains!

Using pins to hold the ribbon in place

While some people are uncomfortable with the idea of using pins to secure a ribbon on a wedding cake, it is possible to do so. One way to do this is to use pearl-topped corsage pins. These pins are about 3.5 inches long and can be used to secure the ribbon by weaving them in and out without sticking them directly into the cake. This method is especially useful if you need to hold the ribbon in place for a few minutes.

Another way to use pins is to hold the ribbon with a dressmaker's pin to pull it nice and straight. Then, use another pin to finish it off. Once the ribbon is stuck down, remove the pins and cut off any excess. This method ensures that the ribbon is even and close to the cake, without any bumps.

It is important to note that some people advise against using metal pins directly in a cake due to potential safety concerns. If you choose to use pins, it is recommended to use glass-headed pins or weave them in and out without sticking them into the cake.

Using glue to attach the ribbon

Prepare the Ribbon

Firstly, measure the ribbon to fit the circumference of the cake tier, with an additional 2-inch overlap to allow for gluing the ribbon ends together. Cut the ribbon to size, and if your ribbon is prone to fraying, carefully seal the cut edges using the flame of a lighter or candle.

Prepare the Cake

If using buttercream, ensure the cake is cold before applying the ribbon, as this will make it easier to handle. If you wish, you can line the cake with a strip of parchment paper first, cut to the same length as the ribbon but 1/8 inch shorter in height. Wrap the parchment paper around the cake and secure it with a piece of cello tape.

Attach the Ribbon

Apply a non-toxic glue to the back of the ribbon. A glue stick or small dots of water, piping gel, or royal icing can be used for this. Wrap the ribbon around the cake, gluing the ends together at the back. If using parchment paper, you may need to use pins to secure the ribbon in place until the glue dries.

Finishing Touches

If there is a visible seam where the ribbon ends meet, you may wish to cover it with a flower or other decoration.

Tips

• If using buttercream, wait until just before delivery to apply the ribbon to avoid any mess.
• If using a thin or light-coloured ribbon, use less glue to avoid it seeping through.
• If using a fabric ribbon with fondant or buttercream, consider backing the ribbon with a non-absorbent paper such as waxed or contact paper to prevent grease stains.
• If using a satin ribbon, iron the back with waxed paper before attaching to prevent grease absorption.

Using water to help the ribbon stick

Water can be used to help stick a ribbon sash to a wedding cake. This method is best used with fondant/sugarpaste, but it is not clear if it will work with buttercream.

First, measure the ribbon to fit the cake and cut it to size. Then, dip the ribbon in water and squeeze out as much water as possible so that the ribbon is only damp. Be sure to dry your hands after this step so that you do not get water anywhere else on the cake. Wrap the ribbon around the cake and, as it dries, it will stick.

You can also use a small dot of water to attach a piece of fondant to the back of the cake, wrap the ribbon around, and then use another small dot of water to attach a second piece of fondant on top, adhering the ribbon together.

Another option is to use a paintbrush to moisten the area around the cake where you want the ribbon to go with a small amount of water. Be careful not to make it too wet, as the ribbon can mark.

Using fondant to attach the ribbon

Firstly, measure the ribbon you will need for your cake and cut it to size. You can use a double-sided satin ribbon, but be sure to back it with waxed or contact paper to prevent absorption of moisture or grease from the cake. If you are using a textured ribbon, you may not need this extra step.

Next, roll out two small pieces of fondant. Using a small amount of water or edible glue, attach the first piece of fondant to the back of the cake. This will act as the anchor for your ribbon.

Now, carefully wrap the ribbon around your cake, ensuring it is smooth and taut. You can use a lighter or candle to seal the edges of the ribbon to prevent fraying.

Finally, attach the second piece of fondant on top of the ribbon, using another small dot of water or edible glue. This will secure the ribbon in place and create a seamless finish.

Some additional tips to consider: If you are using a light-coloured or thin ribbon, you may want to use small dabs of piping gel or royal icing instead of fondant to avoid any discolouration. You can also use a non-toxic glue stick to adhere the ribbon to itself at the back of the cake, creating a neat finish.

Frequently asked questions