Flower Formers for Free (Almost)

Many of you have probably already learned that when it comes to cake decorating tools, I improvise.  Call me cheap, or frugal, or thrifty.  You pick.  If I can improvise a tool and not pay for the one at the store, that makes me a happy camper.  This gadget tip falls into the category of "Why didn't I think of this sooner?"

A store bought flower former looks something like this.

or this.  The purpose of this tool is to provide a curved surface on which to dry fondant or gumpaste flowers. (Is it just me or do the formers on the right look like molars?)

In the past, I have been known to use various bowls or spoons to form my flowers.  No doubt, this works.   I have run into a few problems though.  The first problem is that sometimes the fondant can stick to the surface and break when being removed.  The second problem is that I invariably find myself in need of the bowl or utensil that is filled with fondant flowers, to complete the task of making dinner.  See those spoons?  They are my favorite, big spoons.  I use them on a daily basis.

The solution I found is good for the environment as well as my kitchen.  How does the mantra go?  Reduce * Re-use * Re-purpose  I don't know, that's probably not right...anyway, you get the idea.  Here's what I should have thought of sooner.  You know all those plastic cups you get from the fast food places?  Cut them in half and you have a perfect flower former!

I had to think outside the bun box to come up with this idea.  These flower formers are a bit flexible which helps when removing the dried flowers.  They also nest nicely for storage.  And if you find yourself in need of many of them for a big project, they won't break the bank.  (You can quench your thirst while picking some up - Bonus!)

Go green!

Frostine