Okay that pretty much covers it I want to do a basketball 3d cake for ds birthday. should I go get the ball pan I want a really round shape. Would I find it at Michael's? And what works well as alternatives? I could use all your expertise Thanks in advance!

You can get the soccer ball phalf pan at Michaels. You will need to bake two halfs and to get a really round shape add a 10 round middle and carve all to size. Or use a pyrex bowl and bake two halfs, this will leave a dented top so you will need to carve it also. Use a rose nail in the middle of the pan to help it bake evenly. There was a thread not to long ago on this subject.....Hope this helps.

I would buy the ball pan. I got mine at Walmart. I find that they are usually cheaper than Michael's. I think that Hobby Lobby also sells the ball pan.

The ball pan is so versatile that it is worth buying! It's only $10 and you can use the 40% off coupons either from Micheal's or a competitor-they will accept them in my town.

In a pinch you can use a pyrex glass bowl if you have one. It works great especially for a half ball and they come in various sizes.

You can also use the Bake and fill pan by Betty Crocker... It works great.

I used stainless steel mixing bowls until I bought the sports ball pan. I agree the sports ball pan can be used for so many things, it really comes in handy.