Intro:
Before you begin
Step 1:
Prepare the icing
Step 2:
Level the cake
Step 3:
Assemble a decorating bag
Step 4:
Put in the filling
Step 5:
Ice the cake
Step 6:
Create borders
Step 7:
Add the final touches

2torial #0412:
Learn2 Decorate a Cake (continued)

Level the cake

With a long, thin knife, flatten the cake's top by cutting away just enough to remove any roundness. This will create a level surface on which you can more easily place any decorations (such as borders, flowers, and the like). Measure the sides with a ruler so you're sure you'll be cutting off an even amount, then mark an even height on each side to use as a guide.

Cut the remaining section in half horizontally (measuring and marking the sides again) and place the top layer aside. You should now have two, equally sized layers with flat (not angled or rounded) tops. Place the bottom half of the cake on a cardboard round or a platter.