Welcome to the Cake Decorators Q&A

Hi Everyone,

I’m making a shoe & have done soooo much research I’ve actually confused myself! What is the best medium to make the shoe parts out of? Sugarpaste, modelling paste, flowerpaste?
And how long should I give the heel to dry before attaching the sole?
Any help would be appreciated, thank you

Hi tickle123

I prefer to make shoes from flower paste because it dries a lot quicker. Paul has used half flowerpaste and half fondant in his shoe tutorials. If you’re experiencing hot and humid weather where you are I would recommend flowerpaste unless you have plenty of time to dry your shoes. It can take up to two weeks and more depending on the weather and on how bulky the shoe is. I allow at least a week for the heel to dry using flower paste, thinner pieces take less time, soles again depends on thickness. Platform shoes I would allow a good three weeks going by the one I made last year. Hopefully other members will be able to say what they do.

Hi MIWL,
Do you leave the heel for a week before attaching to the sole/rest of the shoe please? And you do dry in vertical position on a former? Thanks for the quick reply.

Yes I did and it was made with flowerpaste. My attempts using gumpaste were a disaster because the heel would not dry inside. Each time I tried to attach it to the sole it distorted. I think most people attach the heels in a verticle position, I’d love to know how they don’t have all the problems I did! My former was the same as shown by Paul in the strappy sandle tutorial. I bought some killer heels in the charity shop and stripped them down. I think it was the real shoe which prevented my paste from drying out properly + the weather which was so hot. I still think it pays to let the heel firm up for a couple of days regardless of how well it may be drying.
The proper formers are made of heavy duty foam/styro foam so drying is much better. Just give yourself plenty of time, that’s really all I can advise. I know I’ll give myself at least four weeks in future. It was so stressful, I’d hate for it to happen to you. Lets wait and see what other members suggest as well. Have a look at Marcia’s tutorial here http://www.cakeflix.com/online-cake-decorating-courses/handbag-and-shoe-cake x