May 7, 2025

How to Use Wafer Paper for Cake Decorating

Wafer paper is one of the most exciting and versatile materials in modern cake decorating. Lightweight, edible, and easy to manipulate, it's the perfect medium for creating intricate floral designs, ruffles, toppers, and more.

In this beginner-friendly tutorial, we’ll show you how to use wafer paper like a pro, including what tools you’ll need—featuring precision craft tools, trusted by artists and bakers alike.

What Is Wafer Paper?

Wafer paper (also called rice paper) is a thin, edible paper made from potato starch, water, and oil. It’s typically used for:

Edible flowers and leaves
Printed edible images
3D cake toppers and embellishments
Ruffles, sails, and fans for modern cake design

Wafer paper holds its shape well and works best on dry cakes or fondant, making it ideal for contemporary decorating.

Tools & Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following essentials:

✂️ K18 Precision Knife – For cutting delicate wafer paper shapes
🔪 #11 Craft Blade – For clean, precise detailing
📏 Aluminum Ruler – For measuring and cutting straight lines
🧲 Self-Healing Mat – Protects your surfaces during crafting
🖌️ Edible glue or water
🍰 Wafer paper / Rice paper (plain or printed)
🌬️ Small steamer (optional for shaping)

Step-by-Step: How to Decorate Cakes with Wafer Paper

Step 1: Cut Your Wafer Paper Design

Using your K18 knife and aluminum ruler, carefully cut your desired shapes—flowers, leaves, sails, or decorative strips. Wafer paper is very delicate, so use light pressure and a sharp blade.

Step 2: Shape and Sculpt

To add dimension to petals or sails:

Lightly steam the wafer paper with a mini steamer
Gently curl the edges over a round pen or foam form
Let them dry to hold the shape

Pro Tip: Wafer paper responds well to humidity. Too much moisture, however, can melt or wrinkle the paper.

Step 3: Attach to the Cake

Use edible glue, corn syrup, or a light mist of water to adhere the wafer paper to fondant or buttercream cakes. Use a soft brush to avoid oversaturation.

For floral arrangements: use toothpicks or floral wire
For sails or dramatic fans: reinforce the base with thin fondant backing

Step 4: Customize with Edible Paint or Dust

Give your designs a high-end finish using edible shimmer dust, metallic paint, or food coloring. Use a dry brush for subtle gradients or watercolor effects.

Final Thoughts

Wafer paper adds elegant, lightweight, and edible beauty to any cake design. With the right precision tools, cutting and crafting intricate details becomes simple and professional-looking — whether you're a hobbyist baker or a cake artist.

Best Excel Blades Tools for Wafer Paper Crafting

Alumikit (Ruler & Craft Knife Set) – Lightweight and precise for food-safe craft work
Self-Healing Cutting Mat – Keeps wafer paper clean and undamaged
#11 Craft Blades – 100 Pack – Always have a sharp blade on hand

🔗 Explore Excel Blades for Crafting & Cake Design Tools
🔗 Shop Accessories for Precision Crafting