This was my first-ever time touching fondant. It took me over 3 hours to hand-roll the balls, and I didn't know anything about hiding the plates. If I could have a 'do-over', I would use cardboard underneath the tiers (as I did on my Western wedding cake), and have a cut-out for the balls! I eyeballed each one and went by feel. I'm amazed that they all came out so even!