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Using Isomalt to create glass effect for Windows
I plan to have a go at using Isomalt to create some ‘glass sheets’ that I can use for windows on a cake. Anyone had any experience or have any tips? I’m mainly wondering how to shape the windows whilst the Isomalt sets or whether I can cut it into shape once set? Thank you
Hi Julie
I don’t use isomalt but I have melted down boiled sweets for different stainglass projects. Isomalt will set too hard to cut without shattering or distorting. Here’s what I suggest …. use the shape of the windows as templates. Cut tin foil and shape it to form the windows. I’ve used several layers of ordinary baking foil and also the foil from takeaway containers. Both are inexpensive to buy and can be made into temporary shapes. Once you’ve made the shape, place a silicone mat on a tray and pop the shape onto the mat. Use something like play putty or a non toxic putty to form an outter seal all the way around the shape and to keep it steady. Do this by making long lengths of the putty and shaping it around your template. Spray the inside of the foil template with a little frying oil and pour your molten isomalt into that until set! When set, the foil should come off quite easily from the isomalt shape.
Just an additional piece of information … when you pour the isomalt, do so from one corner of the shape keeping fairly low down. If the liquid is poured fast and from a height, it forms air bubbles which remain in the finished product spoiling the look. There are lots of tutorials on youtube on how to use isomalt and how to use molten sugar in the absence of isomalt, The tutorials include how to colour and how to pour the liquid.
More information here: http://www.sugarartsinstitute.org/articles/2014/01/04/isomalt-secrets-success
and fun projects here: http://www.playathomemomllc.com/2012/07/edible-stained-glass/
Also google ‘how to make sugar glass for stain glass windows’
Clear isomalt remains clear once it is melted and takes colour without taint. However ordinary sugar changes colour as it begins to carmellise and will affect certain added colours.
Hope some of the information helps, it’s something to be going on with! Hopefully other members will share their ideas too.
Thank you MIWL, this is really helpful. When you say ‘play putty’, do you think that a non toxic playdoh or similar would be OK? I’m guessing that the Early Learning Centre might be worth a visit. I was racking my brains as to what to use to create a shape that would contain the liquid Isomalt, but never thought of this!
Yes play dough would be fine. Try Hobbycraft as well, I used their white air drying clay.
Don’t forget to check out the youtube video and the other indformation in the above links. If you don’t use the silicone plastique it’s worth looking at the technique as a guide. I hope it works out for you. I would love to hear how you get on.
