Sunday, July 20, 2014

Purchasing Of Gelatin Art Supplies

By Paulette Mason


In the 1920s desserts in decorative molds were a staple in many kitchens. Many children have nostalgic childhood memories of these desserts. Through the years since then the profile of gelatin has been raised as many artists and chefs discover its versatility. Gelatin art supplies are now widely available, particularly in internet stores due to the popularity of this ingredient. It is used for all sorts of artistic creations that look as good as they taste.

Who knew that a colorless protein made by boiling the skin and bones of animals would offer such interesting possibilities? When it is immersed in a liquid, it absorbs the moisture and swells, causing it to gel. This quality made it perfect for use in food and it was soon being used in both sweet and savory foodstuffs from aspic to mousses. The confectionery industry also began to utilize it extensively in products such as nougat, Turkish delight and jelly beans.

However, one of the most exciting developments in its use is for creating 3D decorations on specialty cakes. This has made it possible for even people with minimal cake decorating experience to produce stunning creations. Beginners are catered with kits containing exactly what they need to start. Items like veining and texture sheets are included which make creating ribbons, bows, flowers and leaves much easier than ever before.

A veining sheet is simply a plastic sheet containing images. These are detailed, line drawings of blossoms, leaves, fairy wings, dragonflies and even church windows. A texture sheet is used for creating items such as 3D bows. These sheets are made of clear food grade washable plastic and are therefore re-usable.

These sheets are very easy to use and have revolutionized specialty cake decorating. It simply requires brushing a mixture of water and this ingredient onto a sheet. It is then left to dry and once it is completely dry, it can be peeled off. Each leaf, blossom or other image is then trimmed and assembled. Color can be added to the mixture before it is brushed on.

Working with gelatin can sometimes prove quite tricky. The fact that it has to be mixed with a liquid first can cause some complications. Using too much or too little water cab mean it does not set properly or it becomes too stiff. Another factor to consider is that it becomes solid if not used. Fortunately, it quickly becomes liquid again when heated.

How quickly and how strongly it sets, depends on various factors. The concentration is one of these factors as are the time left for it to set and temperature. The longer the mixture is left, the more solidified it becomes. The cooler the temperature, the quicker it sets.

Veining and texture sheets can be bought individually or in packs and other tools such as brushes, wire and spring scissors are also sold. On some of the sites one can view instructional videos on how to use these products. Even beginners can master the basics successfully and are soon creating decorations they never imagined they could produce.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment