Time for another cake!

This year, Cameron contracted me to do a "Lilo and Stitch" cake.  The following factors may have played a role in his decision:

   - his trip to Hawai'i two years ago

   - his trip to Walt Disney World in June of this year

   - my previous "Stitch-Elvis" cake for Auntie Jan-Jan

...In any case, the requirements were (paraphrasing):

"Lilo and Stitch, hula-dancing, with the ocean...and sand...aaannnd a palm tree.....and a tiki..."

OOOkay, let's get started.

First, google-image search for some source material.  I also started ripping images from the two Lilo and Stitch DVDs that we have, just for thoroughness.

Throw the source materials into Photoshop to get a composite picture.  Print out b/w and color reference copies for templates, then go to town with the knives and cardboard boxes (see the Spongebob cake project for details).

Once the templates are done, you should be able to get a rough-layout seen in Figure 1.

Notice that some templates are layered over/under other layers.  This will help in arranging the fondant-pieces on the cake.

Some tips on fondant I learned this time around:

   - Wax paper is great for handling sticky fondant.

   - If fondant is still too wet or uncooperative, chill it in the freezer for a few minutes.

To go the extra-mile, make a surfboard for a cake-stand.  Cut a half-profile out of cardboard for (yes) a template, then cut the board out, flip the template over and cut again - this should give you a pretty symmetric board.  REPEAT the process for a second-layer for strength.  Duct-tape everything together*.  Wrap it in Christmas-themed wrapping-paper (with the white side out, please) and secure on the bottom with clear packing tape.

Freehand-sketch the three fins on cardboard, cut those out and be sure to include tabs at the ends for attachment to the board.  Cut slots in the board and dry-fit the fins.

Have your son or daughter assist with spray-painting the fins to a nice, even finish.  Insert fins, check alignment, and Duct-tape the fins underneath to secure.

Loosely-wrap cake in plastic-wrap or cake-cover to keep everything fresh.  My fondant has a tendency to dry-out and crumble a bit, so there's always last-minute repairs being made...

Next steps:  light it on fire, cut it up, and eat it.

* - the inclusion of duct-tape certifies this as an official project.