Isomalt and gumpaste offer a captivating world of possibilities for creating exquisite, edible embellishments. These versatile mediums, when skillfully combined, allow for the crafting of breathtakingly detailed brooches, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to cakes, cupcakes, or even as standalone decorative pieces. Imagine the intricate floral designs, sparkling gemstones, and delicate filigree work you can achieve—all edible and stunningly realistic. From shimmering, glassy isomalt components to intricately molded gumpaste flowers, the potential for creative expression is vast.
This guide will delve into the art of crafting these captivating brooches, taking you through each step of the process with clear instructions and helpful tips. Prepare to be amazed as you learn how to create these show-stopping decorations, transforming simple ingredients into miniature edible works of art. Let’s embark on this exciting journey and discover how to make stunning isomalt and gumpaste brooches, starting with the detailed step-by-step process outlined below.
Safety Guidelines
- Isomalt is extremely hot when melted and can cause severe burns. Always use caution and appropriate safety gear (oven mitts, safety glasses) when working with it. Never leave melted isomalt unattended.
- Gumpaste can dry out quickly, leading to cracking. Keep unused gumpaste covered with a damp cloth or in an airtight container to maintain its flexibility.
- Work in a well-ventilated area, especially when melting isomalt, as the fumes can be irritating.
Methods: Creating Isomalt Brooches with a Sassy Shot Sugar Melting Gun
Tools Needed
- Sassy Shot sugar melting gun
- Isomalt sticks
- Clear brooch molds
- Toothpick
- Disco dust
- Small bottle for disco dust
- Cream brûlée torch
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Sassy Shot Gun
- Insert the isomalt stick into the Sassy Shot gun.
- Set the gun to high temperature (pink lights).
Prepare the Sassy Shot Gun Fill the Mold with Isomalt
- Direct the melted isomalt into the mold, using the trigger.
- Rotate the mold to ensure even distribution of isomalt.
- Use a toothpick to guide the isomalt into pointed areas if necessary.
Fill the Mold with Isomalt Enhance Reflectivity
- Apply disco dust to the back of the mold for a reflective effect.
- Use a cream brûlée torch to clear up any air bubbles and enhance reflectivity.
Enhance Reflectivity Add Metallic Details
- Paint metallic gold details using gold sparkle dust mixed with vegetable oil.
Add Metallic Details
Tips
- Use vegetable oil, not vodka or water, with isomalt to avoid dissolving the sugar.
- Clear molds allow for easy visualization of placement and air bubbles.
Methods: Combining Fondant and Isomalt in Brooch Molds
Tools Needed
- Fondant
- Isomalt (melted)
- Clear brooch molds
- Pallet knife
- Vegetable oil cooking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
Fondant Placement
- Place a smooth fondant circle in the desired area of the mold.
Fondant Placement Isomalt Filling
- Fill the remaining mold space with melted isomalt.
Isomalt Filling Surface Smoothing
- Use a pallet knife with vegetable oil spray to smooth the surface from the center outwards.
Surface Smoothing
Tips
- Clear molds allow for easy viewing of placement and prevent fondant from spreading unintentionally.
- Smooth from the center outwards to prevent pulling the edges inwards.
Methods: Creating Gumpaste Brooches
Tools Needed
- Gumpaste
- Clear brooch mold
- Super Pearl dust
- Pallet knife
- Vegetable oil cooking spray
- Sassy Sap gum glue
- Gold Sparkle dust
- Small bottle for disco dust
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Gumpaste Brooch Mold
- Apply Super Pearl dust to the outside of the mold before pressing gumpaste in.
Preparing the Gumpaste Brooch Mold Creating the Gumpaste Brooch
- Press gumpaste into the mold, smoothing the surface from the center outwards with a pallet knife and vegetable oil spray.
- Freeze for 10 minutes to ease removal.
Creating the Gumpaste Brooch Finishing and Decorating the Brooch
- Apply Sassy Sap gum glue and gold sparkle dust to the finished brooch.
Finishing and Decorating the Brooch
Tips
- Avoid applying too much pearl dust directly to the mold to prevent deformation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Isomalt Crystallization
Reason: Isomalt can crystallize prematurely due to moisture or impurities in the pot or ingredients.
Solution: Use completely dry utensils and ingredients, and work in a low-humidity environment.
2. Gumpaste Cracking
Reason: Gumpaste can crack if it's too dry, rolled too thinly, or not properly hydrated.
Solution: Add a tiny amount of water or CMC to dry gumpaste, and ensure it's rolled to an appropriate thickness.
FAQs
What's the difference between isomalt and gumpaste, and which should I use for brooches?
Isomalt is a sugar-based candy that creates hard, glassy, and incredibly shiny pieces. Gumpaste is a fondant-like material that's easier to sculpt intricate details but is less durable and shiny than isomalt. For brooches, isomalt is generally preferred for its shine and durability, while gumpaste might be used for delicate details or as a base for isomalt elements.
How do I prevent my isomalt from crystallizing?
Crystallization is the enemy of clear isomalt! Use a clean, dry saucepan, avoid stirring unnecessarily once melted, and work with your isomalt in a clean, dry environment. Using an isomalt thermometer helps you maintain the correct temperature, and adding corn syrup (a small amount) can also help inhibit crystallization.