impression mat help

The 2nd option sounds better to me, and I've seen it done that way, kinda like with the diamond impression mat.

If you tried the first option wouldn't you lose the neatness of the impression when you go on to smooth the fondant? In my Wilton class I remember we tried it that way, so I guess that would work too if you have not plans for the super manipulation that would be required for sharp edges on your fondant.

I guess it depends on what type/size mat you have. If it's small like the diamond mat then you could do option 2. If it's a huge mat like the Wilton ones you might have to go with option 1.
 

You need to place the fondant on the cake and then press the mat into the sides of the cake, if you have a silpat place your cake on that dust your impression mat with corntsarch or luster dust(remove the excess) and press the mat into the cake.  I like to go over the top of the mat with fondant smoother .    Did you get the paisley mat(it's very big) I cut a 7 inch wide strip off of mine to make it easier to handle.  If you place the mat into the fondant before applying it, the design will stretch.  Hope that helps.

I use the impression mat while the fondant is rolled out on the counter.  I allow the fondant to set up a bit  (and depending on the application, or fondant brand,  I may have also added a bit of tylose to it) before picking it up on my rolling pin.  I use a very soft sponge--like the open cell pink one in the Wilton gum paste flower kit--to gently pat the patterned fondant onto the cake.

Rae