A Beginner’s Guide to Airbrushing
At the start of the year we conducted our CakeFlix members’ survey, to find out exactly what type of content you’re interested in reading. Airbrushing was a topic that kept popping up and we’re happy to say – you spoke, and we listened.
If you’re new to cake decorating, or simply haven’t tried airbrushing before, this guide will help you get started. It might seem a little tricky at first, but with the right method and a little patience, you’ll soon be airbrushing your cakes with the best of them!
The equipment
If you’re looking for a decent airbrushing kit to use at home, look for one around the £150 mark. You can, of course, get smaller kits, which are good for short sharp blasts of airbrushing but will need time to cool off. A larger machine is better for longer use.
Invest in some stencils too. Until you are confident and experienced enough to airbrush free hand, these will keep you on the right track.
Practice makes perfect
Start off by airbrushing with your stencil on cookies. Then, when you’re ready, you can give rolled out sugarpaste a bash.
Here are some simple steps to follow for successful airbrushing:
- Roll out your sugarpaste on a mat
- Put the stencil on top of the sugarpaste, and apply light pressure on top with a rolling pin (this will make the lines sharp)
- Protect the rest of your sugarpaste from any spray, with a few sheets of paper to cover
- Slowly build up the colour – keep the airbrush moving in a smooth back and forth action.
- Create thin layers, so they dry quickly and evenly – there’s also less chance of smudging
- Gently remove the stencil and admire your handiwork – the design will have an embossed, raised up finish
- Carefully trim the section you want to use
- While the sugarpaste is still soft, use a palette knife to take it off the board
- Add the beautiful stencilled border to one of your cakes
Watch Paul demonstrate the full process right here:
Have you tried airbrushing? Share your top tips below…
