I am trying to figure out how to build a submarine emerging from the water. Have decided on a regular rectangular cake as the base, then I want to sculpt the shape of the submarine as it comes out of the "water". Two questions: first, any recommendations on the type of pan I could use to come close to an oblong look of the sub shape? And second, what on earth is "crumb coating" that I see referred to over and over again for sculpting cakes? Thanks in advance for all advice!!

Try using a wonder mold pan, the one people use for doll cakes and level it at a bottom corner. Hope that makes sense.

Crumb coat is a thin layer of icing you put on the cake to seal in the crumbs. Just let it set for a minute (some people even put it in the fridge) and then put on your icing. It prevents the crumbs from getting into your final coat of icing.

I would think a pound cake/loaf pan would be a good starting shape. A crumb coat is a very thin coat of icing that you put on and let set before you do your final base icing. It is supposed to help limit any crumbs.

Lisa

Another alternative for a crumb coating is heat some honey/corn syrup/ apricot (or any fruit)jelly and pour on top of cake. Helps "glue" the crumbs to the cake, also adds a little additional flavour.