Need info on learning to decorate cakes. Wilton classes are not available in my area. Any suggestions of books, videos, etc.? I do have some experience with decorating and know only the basics.

There are instructions on this site (from the HOME) link, for all sorts of decoration. Smoothing buttercream, making roses, etc.

Also, the Wilton site has lots of basic instructions with pictures.

Between the two, you can find most of the things you need to learn as basics.

You might check your local recreation department, or local bakeries. Smetimes there are cake classes offered through these. I know my town has a lady that offers classes through the city park and rec department. I haven't taken them because I am taking the Wilton courses right now, but I take my daughter to dance there and saw some of her flyers.

Hi & welcome to CC!!
Have you checked with a community college? Sometimes courses are offered there. Some local high schools offer evening Adult Education courses in cake decorating I, II & III.
Good Luck!

I would recommend getting the books used in the Wilton courses. They are pretty easy to follow. I know Michael's doesn't sell them individually but, Joann's stores do ($4.95 each, I think). Maybe a craft store near you has them? Although, maybe not if they don't offer the classes. I'd be happy to pick them up for you if you're interested. I'm at the store often enough. They're relatively thin, so I don't think S/H would be too bad. Wilton also has a few videos. I actually have them, (was given as a gift) but have not viewed them as of yet. I've seen them on ebay. Maybe someone else can let you know if they're helpful. One of these days I'll watch them. For right now, I start course III on Tuesday.

I also like the book The Whimsicalbakehouse - Fun to make cakes that taste as good as they look. It has lots of great recipes as well as easy to follow decorating instructions.

Another one I like is International School of Sugarcraft Book 1 - Beginners. I was given books 1-3 for Christmas but, I think I'll be using book 1 for a while. Books 2 and 3 are a little ahead of me at this point. So far I really like Book 1. It's been very helpful and pretty easy to follow.

HTH

Wow, I did not know some high schools have cake decorating classes or even some bakeries. Thanks for the information ya'll.

Hi ttowndiva ~ Some of the high schools in this area offer EVENING Adult Education courses. Besides cake decorating they offer much more. Computer I & II; accounting; Languages and so much more. Well worth looking into.