Attaching gum paste decorations is typically done using edible adhesives to ensure they stay securely in place on your cake or other sugarpaste creations.
Common Methods for Attaching Gum Paste
The most effective and common way to attach gum paste pieces is using a form of edible glue.
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Edible Glue (Gum Paste Glue / Tylose Glue): This is the most recommended adhesive for sugarpaste and gum paste work. It's usually made by dissolving a small amount of CMC powder (also known as Tylose powder) in water. This creates a clear, strong glue.
- How to use: Apply a small amount of the glue using a brush or toothpick to one of the surfaces you wish to join. Hold the pieces together gently for a few seconds until they start to adhere. Use sparingly, as too much glue can make the gum paste soggy or leave a visible mark.
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Water: For very light pieces or when joining fresh gum paste pieces together, a tiny bit of water can sometimes act as an adhesive. However, it is much less reliable than edible glue, especially for attaching pieces to fondant or dried gum paste.
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Royal Icing: Can be used, particularly for attaching heavier pieces or for structural support. Be aware that royal icing dries opaque and leaves a visible white line, which may not be desired depending on the design.
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Melted Chocolate: Useful when attaching gum paste to chocolate-covered cakes or chocolate decorations. Ensure the temperature is not too hot to melt the gum paste.
Attaching Specific Gum Paste Pieces
The method can vary slightly depending on what you are attaching and where you are attaching it.
Attaching Petals to a Base
As shown in certain techniques, like creating gum paste flowers:
- You can attach petals into a plastic rose base.
- Then, brush tight X gum onto the base for glue.
- Attach the petals onto the glued base.
- As you work, be sure to overlap your petals placing each one about halfway over the previous petal. This creates a natural layered look and helps secure the petals to each other and the base.
Attaching Decorations to a Cake or Cupcake
For attaching dried or semi-dried gum paste decorations (like figures, flowers, or cutouts) to a cake covered in fondant or buttercream:
- Fondant Surface: Use edible glue. Apply a small amount to the back of the gum paste decoration or the spot on the cake where it will go. Gently press the decoration into place. For heavier items, you might need to use royal icing for stronger support or even dowels if the decoration is very large.
- Buttercream Surface: For buttercream that has crusted slightly, you can often press the decoration directly onto the surface if it's light. For softer buttercream or heavier decorations, edible glue can work, or you might use a dab of buttercream itself as the "glue." Be cautious as moisture from buttercream can affect gum paste over time.
Summary of Adhesives
| Adhesive Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edible Glue (Tylose) | Most gum paste attachments, petals to base | Strong, clear, dries quickly | Requires mixing (or purchasing) |
| Water | Very light pieces, fresh gum paste joints | Simple, readily available | Weak, inconsistent, can dissolve paste |
| Royal Icing | Heavier pieces, structural support | Strong holding power | Opaque, visible, dries hard and brittle |
| Melted Chocolate | Attaching to chocolate surfaces | Blends well with chocolate themes | Can melt gum paste if too hot, visible |
Using the correct adhesive and applying it sparingly are key to successfully attaching your gum paste decorations without causing damage or leaving unsightly marks.
