Cake

21c 22a21a 21b23a 23b22b 22c25 26a24a 24bSteps 21a-c.Using a water wash with a dark brown food colouring,paint over the panel in small areas at a time. Let thepaint flow into all the cracks, then dab with a papertowel. Once dry, take the white food colouring anddry brush over the panel to create a painted look. Cuteach panel into two sections, trying to create differentsizes. Chip edges with an X-acto knife to create a moreweathered look.Steps 22a-c.Using royal icing, apply the panels to the cake, playingaround with the panels to fit them together. UsingCharcoal petal dust, shade in all seams and crackedareas and between each panel. Lastly, take the whitefood colouring and dry brush/sponge another layer ofthe white paint effect.For the carved wood tier:Steps 23a & b.You will need to create two panels that are 14” inlength x ½” thick x the height of your assembleddouble barrel 8” cake. l prefer to do this step in twopanels, working on one at a time. Roll up the paneland then roll onto the sides of the fondant toppedcake, smoothing out any imperfections with a fondantsmoother. Pinch the top edges of the fondant to attachthe sides and the top creating the edge of the wood. Besure your cake is firm underneath during this processand for preparation for the next step.Steps 24a & b.Be sure to have a template or picture of your wooddesign to follow, as you will need to work quickly beforeyour fondant firms up. With the bulbous dresden andball tool, create deep crevice-like patterns to give thecarved wood look. Freehand any details that may beadded.Place the cake back in the fridge to become firm beforeyou add the second panel. Using ivory, dark brown andwhite food colouring, paint a wood grain effect on thetop of the cake.Step 25.With a large circle cutter, make an indent in themiddle of the carved tier to resemble the door. Using apaintbrush, apply a brown water wash coat and ensureall crevices are filled in, using the colour thicker incertain areas to create depth.Steps 26a & b.Using a silicone key hole mould, press your fondantin and set in the freezer for five minutes. Oncefirm, remove from the mould. Let it come to roomtemperature and apply a water wash coat of brownon top.Tip: Creating your own moulds is a great way to savemoney and be creative. Using a reusable mould maker,you can create your own moulds by simply pressinganything into it to create the exact impression.