Fondant Stamps 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Decorating with Embossers

Choosing the Right Fondant Stamps
Preparing Your Fondant
Stamping the Fondant
Decorating with Stamped Fondant
Maintenance Tips

When starting, the vast array of available designs can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you choose the right fondant stamps:

• Start Simple: If you are new to using fondant stamps, begin with simple designs. Geometric shapes, or basic flowers are great starters before progressing to more intricate patterns.
• Consider Your Needs: Think about the types of events you usually bake for. Cookies for weddings might benefit floral patterns, and ring designs. Click here for some of our favourite picks for wedding cookie cutters whereas birthday cookies can be decorated with fun, whimsical designs. Some Australian Made Birthday Party cookie cutters can be found here
• Quality Over Quantity: Invest in a few high-quality plastic stamps that will not only last longer, but also provide cleaner, more precise imprints.

Proper preparation of your fondant is key to achieving the best results with your stamps. Here’s how to get your fondant ready for stamping:

• Knead Your Fondant: Fondant needs to be kneaded until it is smooth and pliable. If it's too stiff, add a few drops of water; if it's too sticky, a dusting of cornstarch will help.
• Roll Out the Fondant: Use a rolling pin to roll out the fondant on a surface dusted with cornstarch or powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch, which is ideal for most stamping.

With your fondant prepared and your stamp chosen, you’re ready to begin stamping:

• Dust the Stamp and Cutter: Lightly dust your plastic fondant stamp and cutter with cornstarch to prevent them from sticking to the fondant.
• Cut Out Shapes: Using the cutter, press it into the fondant and do not remove it.
• Press the Stamp: Firmly press the stamp onto the fondant inside of the cutter, making sure to apply even pressure so that the design imprints clearly. For larger stamps, start from one end and gently roll to the other to avoid air traps.
• Remove the Stamp and Cutter: Carefully peel the cutter away from the fondant and repeat this step with the stamp. If the fondant sticks or the design isn't clear, dust with more cornstarch and try again.

Once you have your fondant stamped and cut, you can apply it to your cookies. Here are some finishing tips:

• Applying to Cookies: Brush a light coating of water or edible glue on the back of the fondant piece before applying it to the cookie. This helps it adhere better.
• Colouring: Use edible paints or food coloring to enhance the embossed designs, making them stand out more. Check out our Sweet Sticks paints here.
• Layering: Layer different designs or colors of fondant to create more complex, multi-dimensional decorations.

Photo Credit: @asprinkleofcrystal on Instagram

 

Maintenance Tips

Taking care of your plastic fondant stamps is crucial for their longevity:

• Cleaning: Clean stamps with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or pads. Please be aware that dishwasher and microwave will damage the plastic cookie cutters, and render them unusable. 
• Storage: Store plastic stamps flat or in a single layer to avoid distortion. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources.