I would like to highly recommend Julia M Usher's videos on cookie decorating to all new cookie decorators. I have 2 of her books but actually watching as she shows the techniques makes things look so much simpler.  The series of videos is based on her book 'Ultimate Cookies' and there is a video for each of the techniques described in the book.  Altogether there are 16 little videos which you stream for $1.99 each or $15 for the lot for a year.  I am only half way through but I am really glad that I bought them. Her teaching is so clear and concise and makes you feel that anyone can do it.  I know that you can find all these techniques on youtube but here they are all in the same place, at a very modest price, and with really good viewing quality.  For me this is a dream.  I am soooo sick of teaching myself out of books.

And for any skeptics out there, NO I do not receive any kickbacks.

I second this.  I bought the actual DVD. Its awesome.  I paid a$19.99.  Its so informative.

Hey, there! I just caught your comments on Google Alerts! Thanks so much for spreading the word about my videos - I am deeply appreciative and thrilled you enjoyed them. For those wanting more info, you can find it here on my site: http://www.juliausher.com/kitchen_and_studio/more/its_here/

As these ladies point out, the videos come in two forms - streamed online (for shorter periods) or in DVD (for eternity). I wanted to provide a range of viewing options for those of different skill levels and with different needs. Each has its pros and cons: the viewing quality is higher in the streamed videos. They're exactly the same videos, but Amazon/Createspace (my DVD provider) has disc specs that require some compression of the videos. However, the online videos are best viewed with flash and hi-speed internet (they will not view on an iPhone or iPad yet). Maybe TMI, but just some things to consider . . . 

If anyone has any questions, let me know! And to cazza1's point, above, I don't have enough money to afford kickbacks! :)