Book excerpt: Impress your friends and loved ones with your cake-decorating skills by using this fun and fabulous collection of ingenious cupcakes. Ideal for a wide range of celebrations, the 30 unique cupcake projects cover the popular themes of spring festivals, winter holidays, animals, new baby, novelty characters, wedding and flowers. No prior knowledge is needed as all the basic techniques are fully explained and beginners will be amazed by the fantastic, professional-looking results they can achieve with the help of the step-by-step colour photographs featured throughout, while practised cake makers will gain from Ann's extensive experience and inspirational approach. Learn how to make basic cupcakes, shape and make models from sugarpaste, make buttercream and royal icing and use a variety of piping techniques, amongst other things.