How Do You Make a Piping Bag?

You can create a piping bag using readily available materials, with the two most common methods involving a plastic bag or parchment paper.

Method 1: Using a Resealable Plastic Bag

This is a quick and easy solution, especially for smaller piping jobs or when you need a disposable option.

1. Fill the Bag: Spoon the icing, cream, or other filling into a resealable plastic bag (like a Ziploc). Avoid overfilling; about halfway is ideal.
2. Remove Air and Seal: Gently push out any excess air from the bag and seal it tightly.
3. Reinforce the Corner (Optional): For added strength, you can reinforce the corner you'll be cutting by applying a small piece of tape.
4. Cut the Corner: Use scissors to carefully cut a small piece off one corner of the bag. Start small; you can always make the opening larger. The size of the cut determines the size of the piped line.
5. Pipe Away: Squeeze the bag from the top to force the filling through the opening.

Pros:

• Readily available
• Easy to use
• Disposable

Cons:

• Can be less precise than parchment cones
• Not ideal for thick fillings

Method 2: Using Parchment Paper (Piping Cone)

This method allows for greater control and is often preferred by bakers and decorators.

1. Cut a Triangle: Cut a square of parchment paper. Fold it diagonally to create a triangle, then cut along the fold to create two identical triangles.
2. Form the Cone: Hold one triangle with the longest side facing you. Bring one corner up and over to meet the opposite corner, forming a cone shape. Overlap the corners slightly.
3. Adjust and Secure: Adjust the cone until the point is closed and secure the overlapping edges with a piece of tape inside and outside.
4. Fill the Cone: Fold over the top edges of the cone to create a cuff. This will help keep the cone closed and make it easier to handle. Spoon the filling into the cone, filling it about halfway.
5. Close the Cone: Fold the top edges of the cone inward to enclose the filling.
6. Cut the Tip: Use scissors to cut the tip of the cone to your desired opening size. As with the plastic bag method, start small.
7. Pipe Away: Squeeze the cone from the top to pipe.

Pros:

• Offers greater control
• Suitable for various fillings
• Relatively inexpensive

Cons:

• Requires some practice to master
• Can be time-consuming to make

Choosing the Right Method

The best method depends on your needs and preferences. For quick and simple tasks, a plastic bag is a great option. For more intricate designs and thicker fillings, a parchment cone might be a better choice. Remember to practice and experiment to find what works best for you!