Can anyone offer any advice on how to use the Cricut Cake machine? I have had a regular Cricut for a couple years and love it, but am struggling with the Cake machine. Are there any tips on using fondant, gum paste, or mixture of both? How do I prepare the mat, shortening or a powdered ingredient? I think it would open new possibilities if I can just figure out how to use it.

Firstly look up Linda McClure's cricut gum paste recipe on google.  Roll this very thinly and apply to a mat that has a very fine layer of shortening.  The fat helps the gumpaste stick to the mat.  Put it in a plastic bag (I use a black garbage bag because of the size of the mat) and let sit for at least half an hour or more.  This gives it time for the surface to harden a bit.  Then just pretend it is paper and cut as you normally would. 

Thanks for the great tip! I am going to try this as it seems to be on the right track. I have trouble with the gum paste just ripping to pieces while the cutter is going. I imagine a little crust will eliminate my problem.

i agree roll it really thin so you can of the see the pattern of the mat xx