
	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







	coupler: a two-part device that looks like a large nut and bolt combo (the "nut" is ring-shaped and the "bolt" is cone-shaped) that's used as an attachment mechanism for decorating tips decorating tip: a small, cone-shaped metallic or plastic attachment used with a decorating bag to create various shapes (such as borders, flowers, etc.) with icing


	If you don't have a coupler, just place the decorating tip inside the cone and push it through the very end of the cone, so its tip is sticking out the bottom. Tape it in place to keep it secure. Also consider using a tip with a wide opening first; then if you want to use the same color with a different tip, you can fit the second tip over the first and tape it into place.

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

Assemble a decorating bag

Decorating bags come in various models. If you want to get into cake decorating for the long haul, purchase several featherweight bags, which are made of washable polyester that's specially coated to prevent leaks. If you're a one-time-only decorator, use a disposable (plastic) or parchment paper bag. You can find these ready-made at most grocery stores.

Next, you'll insert the coupler (available at larger grocery stores, many department stores, and specialty cookware shops).While you can use a bag without one, a coupler will help you keep your decorating details steady. You can also use it to change decorating tips while using the same bag (otherwise you'll need a different bag for each tip).

To use a coupler:

Twist its ring off and push the cone-shaped base (narrow end first) into the open end of the bag and down toward the pointed end as far as it will go (be gentle if you're using paper).
If you're using a featherweight bag, use a pen to mark a line where you can see the circular outline of the bottom threads where the ring screws onto the base.
Push the base back into the bag and cut the end at the line. Then push the base back down toward the point until its end and the bottom threads are showing.
If you're using a disposable plastic or a paper bag, push the coupler base into the bag, then trim the bag about one-quarter inch below the bottom edge of the coupler.

Choose a decorating tip that has a large, round opening (you'll be using it first), and attach it to the coupler base. Then put the ring over the tip and screw it into place.

Step 4