Textured Mat Technique

Textured mats are a great tool for everything from creating realistic animals to designing fashion accessories in the kitchen. When working with sugar dough, these mats make it easy for cake decorators to replicate recognizable patterns, such as alligator skin, or simply add dimension to cake surfaces. But how can we make those textures pop even more?

Join Elisa Strauss in this advanced lesson, where she will show you four different techniques for applying color to textured sugar dough to enhance its appearance. From matte to shiny colors and luxe metallic finishes, Elisa will walk you through the steps and share which products work best for each effect. She starts by introducing several types of mats available on the market and demonstrates how to use them on rolled fondant, though other sugar doughs like modeling chocolate and gum paste can be used in the same way. Elisa also explains how to add extra texture using a ball tool and your hands.

Next, Elisa demonstrates four methods for achieving a range of looks: a dry matte finish, a shiny surface with deeper-colored creases, a bold metallic finish for a luxe feel, and a wet glazed surface that maintains its shine even after drying. These techniques allow cake decorators to achieve the exact appearance of materials like dry lizard skin or a glossy patent leather purse. Try out these techniques to elevate your cake decorating skills.