I tried to find a previous post on this subject. I just got my new dummies, and i need to know how to prep them. I want to be able to practice with both b/c and fondant, and be able to strip them down and do all over again when i need to with out damaging or staining them. Any tips or thoughts or how tos would be great. TIA

I've only done one dummy and I'm sure there are much better ways and methods. I did my dummy in fondant. I used a coarse nail file to soften the top edge to keep the fondant from tearing. Then I brushed a light coat of piping gel around the bottom 1/2 inch of the dummy and covered it in fondant. Worked great with no problems. I've heard that some people cover the dummy with buttercream but the instructor I had said that was not needed. Since it turned out great I would do it the same way again.

I don't prep my dummies at all. For BC, I just slap the BC on them. It hardens as hard as concrete, but when I want to remove it, I just run a knife under the icing and it pops right off in big sheets.

I've put fondant on a couple of dummies. While it's a little harder to get off than the BC, it came off ok.

I've used my dummies over and over so many times, I've lost count.

I'm with Indy. I don't do anything to prep my dummies, and a few have been around for 7-8 years, getting decorated and redecorated. A knife will pop off bc or fondant, and if not a run thru a hot dishwasher or shower will take care of it.

Thankyou so much, now it off to decorate and play, woohoo!

You can also use some shortening on the dummies. Makes it easier for fondant to stick and it comes off really easy. Have fun!!!