By Makai Cake Decorating Supplies

 

Fondant figures are a fun and creative way to bring cakes to life – whether you're crafting a fairy tale scene, a jungle full of animals, or a playful baby shower centrepiece.

In this guide, we’ll show you step by step how to decorate a cake using fondant figures, with tips on placement, styling, and finishing touches.

 

 

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 1. Choose Your Theme First 

 

Before you start placing figures, it’s essential to choose a cohesive theme.
This will help you decide on colour palettes, figure styles, and supporting elements.

 

Some popular themes include:

• Animals (e.g. farm animals, forest creatures, or safari scenes)
  
  
• Fairy tales (dragons, fairies, castles)
  
  
• Baby showers (cute bears, ducks, or prams)
  
  
• Hobbies (like gardening or space adventures)
  
  
• Seasonal (spring flowers, winter snowmen)
  
  

 

📝 Pro tip: Make sure the style of the figures matches the occasion. A soft pastel bunny fits better on a baby shower cake than on a comic-style superhero cake.

 

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 2. Prepare Your Cake for Decoration 

 

A smooth surface is key. Whether you're covering your cake in buttercream or fondant, try to get the finish as clean as possible. 
This ensures your figures sit securely and look neat.

 

• Use a cake smoother to even out any bumps.
  
  
• Consider adding a simple border or background texture (like wood grain, clouds, or grass) before placing the figures.
  
  
• For best results, chill the cake slightly before adding heavier decorations.

 

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 3. Placement Planning is Key 

 

Think of your cake like a little stage – the figures are the stars, and placement makes all the difference.

• Start with the main figures, such as a central character or scene.
  
  
• Build supporting elements around them: trees, stars, mushrooms, tiny animals, etc.
  
  
• Leave space for a cake topper, name tag, or candles if you plan to include them.

 

 

🎨 Visual balance is important. Place elements in a way that draws the eye around the cake and not just to one side.

 

 

 

 

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 4. Attaching the Figures Securely 

 

Nobody wants a toppling unicorn! Use the right techniques to make sure everything stays in place.

• For small or flat elements, use edible glue or royal icing.
  
  
• For larger figures, insert a toothpick or uncooked spaghetti to anchor them.
  
  
• Let fondant figures dry slightly before placing to prevent drooping.
  
  

 

 

 

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 5. Add Dimension and Balance 

 

Flat cakes are fine – but layered, dimensional designs have more impact.

• Use platforms or hills made of fondant to raise certain figures.
  
  
• Combine flat cut-outs with 3D sculptures for contrast.
  
  
• Always check the cake from every angle, especially if it will be displayed in the centre of a table.
  
  

 

🪄 Little platforms or boxes under figures can make even small characters stand out.

 

 

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 6. Finishing Touches 

 

Now it’s time to bring everything together with fine details that add magic.

• Sprinkles, shimmer dust, and tiny edible pearls give extra sparkle.
  
  
• Add a personalised cake topper or a small sign with a name or message.
  
  
• Clean any smudges or stray icing before presentation.
  
  

 

📸 Don’t forget to take a photo of your masterpiece!

 

 

Now it’s time to bring everything together with fine details that add magic…

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 Ready to Create a Cake Full of Personality? 

 

Whether you're crafting a dinosaur jungle or a fairy garden, the right fondant figures make all the difference.

 
Explore our collection of handmade fondant decorations – from dragons and ducks to fairies and farm animals – and bring your next cake to life!

 

 

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