Creating A Luster Dust Painting On Buttercream Cake

Luster dust is a fine powder that adds a shimmering, sparkly effect to cakes and frosting. It comes in a variety of colours, including gold, silver, and pearl, and can be used to create a metallic finish. When using luster dust on a buttercream cake, it is important to first chill the cake so that the frosting is firm to the touch. The luster dust can then be mixed with a small amount of clear alcohol, such as vodka, to create a paste, which can be painted onto the cake using a food-grade or pastry brush. Alternatively, the luster dust can be dry-brushed onto the cake, creating a more subtle effect.

Choosing the right paintbrush

When it comes to choosing the right paintbrush for painting a buttercream cake with lustre dust, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, it is important to use a food-grade paintbrush or a pastry brush. These brushes are specifically designed for use with food items and are safe for consumption. You can also use a clean makeup brush, which can help to lessen the visibility of brush strokes and create a smoother finish.

The type of paintbrush you choose will depend on the desired effect and the level of detail you want to achieve. For painting larger areas or for a more subtle shimmer, a bigger, softer brush can be used. This allows for a more even distribution of the lustre dust and prevents the appearance of noticeable brush strokes.

On the other hand, if you are working on smaller details or intricate designs, a finer brush with thinner bristles will give you more precision and control. This is especially important if you are painting lettering or intricate patterns on your cake. A fine brush will allow you to carefully outline and fill in your designs with minimal mess and smudging.

Another option is to use a brush with loose bristles for a different effect. By dipping the brush into the lustre dust and then lightly shaking it above the cake, you can create a delicate dusting of sparkle. This method can be ideal for adding a subtle shimmer to crusted buttercream or creating sparkly borders.

Additionally, it is important to ensure that your paintbrush is of good quality and has soft bristles. This will help you achieve a smoother and more even finish on your cake. It is also recommended to use a new or dedicated food-only brush to maintain hygiene and avoid any cross-contamination.

In summary, choosing the right paintbrush for painting a buttercream cake with lustre dust depends on the level of detail and the desired effect. Whether you opt for a food-grade paintbrush, a pastry brush, or a makeup brush, always ensure that your tools are clean and of good quality to achieve the best results.

Preparing the cake's surface

To prepare the surface of your cake for painting with luster dust, start by applying a final coat of buttercream. Then, place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes until the finish is hard to the touch. This will ensure that the buttercream is well crusted, which is important for painting with luster dust.

Next, select a suitable brush for applying the luster dust. It should be a food-grade paintbrush, pastry brush, or makeup brush with soft, high-quality synthetic fibers and a good shape for the area you want to paint. Ensure that the bristles are safe for use with food, as regular paintbrushes may be made with animal hair.

Before painting, mix your luster dust with an alcohol-based extract such as vodka, lemon extract, or tequila. This will create a smooth paste or glaze with a paint-like consistency. Alcohol will evaporate after painting, leaving behind a shimmering finish. You can adjust the consistency by adding more or less liquid, but be careful not to add too much at once, as a small amount of alcohol goes a long way in transforming your powder into paint.

Finally, prepare your work area by placing a baking sheet underneath the cake to catch any excess luster dust or paint mixture. This will help contain the mess and make cleanup easier.

Now, you are ready to begin painting your buttercream cake with luster dust!

Mixing the luster dust

Mixing luster dust with an alcohol solution is the best way to prepare it for painting onto a buttercream cake. The alcohol acts as a preservative, maintaining the dust's intense colour, and it also ensures the mixture dries quickly.

Vodka is the most popular alcohol to use, but lemon extract and tequila are also mentioned. You only need a few drops of vodka at a time, as a little alcohol goes a long way. The consistency you are aiming for is that of wall paint or slightly thicker.

You can also add colour to your luster dust mixture to create a glaze. This won't give the brightest sparkle, but it will add a subtle shimmer.

If you want to create a metallic finish, you can use gold or silver luster dust. However, be aware that some gold luster dusts contain high levels of copper, which is not considered healthy for consumption.

It is also important to note that you should not mix luster dust with water, as it will form a sticky mess and lose its shimmer.

Applying the luster dust

Applying the lustre dust is the final step in achieving that sparkly, shimmering cake. There are a few different methods to apply lustre dust to a buttercream cake, and the right one for you will depend on the effect you want to achieve.

Firstly, you can sprinkle the dust directly onto the cake. This method can be messy, so it is recommended to place a baking sheet underneath the cake to catch any excess dust. You can also use this method to create sparkly borders—simply add a layer of lustre dust to a baking sheet and carefully press the outside of your cake into it.

For a more intense colour and shimmer, it is recommended to mix the lustre dust with a few drops of clear alcohol, such as vodka or lemon extract. You can also use an alcohol-based extract to preserve the intense colours of the lustre dust. This mixture can then be painted onto the cake with a food-grade paintbrush or pastry brush. You can also use a clean makeup brush to lessen the appearance of brush strokes. This method can be used to paint details onto wafer paper flowers, which can then be added to the cake as decorations.

If you are using a metallic lustre dust, it is important to note that it may not dissolve as well in the alcohol, resulting in a grainier finish.

You can also mix the lustre dust directly into the frosting, although this is not the most popular method as it can be difficult to achieve a good effect, and a lot of dust is required.

If you are using an airbrush, you can mix the lustre dust with alcohol and spray it onto the cake.

When applying the lustre dust, it is important to ensure that all surfaces are dry. It is also recommended to chill the cake before painting it, so that the surface is firm to the touch.

Creating different effects

Luster dust is a versatile medium that can be used in a multitude of ways to create different effects on buttercream cakes. It is a fine powder made from mica and other edible ingredients, and it comes in a variety of colours and finishes, including metallic and pearl.

Dry Application

For a dry application, use a soft brush to paint the cake surface. This method is suitable for creating detailed designs such as flowers or geometric patterns directly on the buttercream. It can also be used to add luster dust to the edges of the cake, creating a stunning frame. This technique allows for more precise artwork and personalisation.

Wet Application

For a wet application, liquefy the luster dust using an alcohol-based liquid such as vodka, lemon extract, or tequila. Paint this mixture onto the cake using a food-grade paintbrush or pastry brush. This technique is suitable for cakes with uneven surfaces, fold designs, and hard-to-reach places.

Stencils

Stencils can be used to create intricate patterns and stunning designs on the cake. First, dust the surface of the stencil with cornstarch and firmly press it into the buttercream or fondant. Then, use a brush to paint the luster dust over the stencil, ensuring all details are covered. Leave it to dry completely before removing the stencil.

Ombre Effect

An ombre effect can be achieved by applying different shades of luster dust from top to bottom. Choose two to three shades that blend well together and layer them gradually, starting with the lightest colour at the top and transitioning to the darkest at the bottom.

Airbrushing

An airbrush applicator can be filled with a liquefied solution of edible luster dust, and designs can be airbrushed onto the cake. This method can be used with or without stencils and allows for a wide range of artistic possibilities.

Sparkly Borders

To create sparkly borders, simply add a layer of luster dust to a baking sheet and carefully press the outside of your cake into it. This will give the edges of your cake a subtle sparkle.

Make it Pop!

For an even more intense sparkle, try using disco dust. The chunky nature of this dust will create a fabulous feature in the centre of edible flowers. Use a little royal icing to glue the thick particles in place.

Frequently asked questions