Royal icing for beginners...

[ophelia1983]

Hey everyone!

I need your help! My mom passed away and it is a religious custom in my country to make "koliva", a sort of sweet wheat dish that is usually covered in either icing sugar or fondant and then decorated (usually with the name of the deceased, a cross, and flowers).

So, on top of the koliva, I want to write my mom's name with royal icing. The letters are sold on the market (see photo) but I don't like the design of the ones that are sold, so I made a beautiful design on my computer and want to do that.

Now for my question... In order for my letters to become thick enough so that they don't break easily, I think I need to use a quite a few royal icing layers. How long should I wait before adding each layer and how many layers do you think I will need?

 

[Norcalbaker59]

Hey everyone!

I need your help! My mom passed away and it is a religious custom in my country to make "koliva", a sort of sweet wheat dish that is usually covered in either icing sugar or fondant and then decorated (usually with the name of the deceased, a cross, and flowers).

So, on top of the koliva, I want to write my mom's name with royal icing. The letters are sold on the market (see photo) but I don't like the design of the ones that are sold, so I made a beautiful design on my computer and want to do that.

Now for my question... In order for my letters to become thick enough so that they don't break easily, I think I need to use a quite a few royal icing layers. How long should I wait before adding each layer and how many layers do you think I will need?

View attachment 4869

My condolences for the loss of your mother.

Absent a base like a cookie, royal icing may not be the best material to create letters.

I would recommend gum paste or Mexican paste. Both can be rolled thin, dry firm, and hold their shape. Mexican paste holds it shape a little better.

Info on Mexican paste

Mexican Paste – Sugar Paste - Flower Paste | Robert's Cakes and Cooking

Mexican Paste – Sugar Paste – Flower paste

robertscakesandcooking.com

 

[Mona]

I’m so sorry for your loss. For your royal icing letters, you should wait about 30 minutes to an hour between each layer to let them dry properly. Aim for 3-4 layers to get the thickness you need. Just ensure each layer is smooth and even. Let the completed letters dry in a cool, dry place. I hope your koliva turns out beautifully and honors your mom’s memory.


4o mini