How did you make the progression from a graphic designer to a cake designer ?
My cupcake journey began in 2013 , when I was searching for a creative outlet away from my graphic design job . Cupcake art was always something at the back of my mind that I wanted to try , and when I saw the first episode of the Great Australian Bake Off air in Australia ( their cupcake episode ) I immediately became hooked .
Where do you find your inspiration ?
Inspiration is everywhere - it really does come down to perception . If I find I ’ m having creative block I love to scroll through Pinterest - visually it is so engaging and it ’ s easy to find inspiration .
What are your long term goals for your business ?
Ultimately , I would love to be recognised nationally and internationally for my detailed and miniaturised fondant work ( which is easier said than done !). Additionally , I would love the opportunity to regularly teach my skills at cake decorating venues and events around Australia .
What do you love about creating cupcakes as opposed to cakes ?
Cupcakes represent a challenge to be artistically creative in only a small working space . Additionally , most of your focus is on the design and creation of the cupcake topper itself .
However , when decorating a cake , you have to bake , ganache , then cover your cake before you can even start piecing your design together . I think to myself “ Imagine doing this process for a four tiered cake ?”. Personally , I find this to be an exhausting process and not as rewarding .
In saying that , I have made cakes in the past that I am quite proud of , but I find cupcakes are more satisfying . Seeing as I am from a graphic design background , I tend to really want to focus as much time as I can on design , instead of exhausting myself ( in my opinion ) on monotonous cake processes .
Your miniature toppers are so beautifully detailed . How do you get such stunning results on such a small scale ?
Thank you very much - miniature food toppers are my speciality ! I am a perfectionist and coming from a graphic design background I have a really good eye for detail . To get this end result , it really does take a lot of time and patience . For some reason , I ’ ve always been better at modelling smaller fondant decorations compared to creating larger ones .
What are your favourite cake tools ?
My favourite tools are pretty standard - I love my scapel , palette knife and dresden tool - I would not go anywhere without them .
Do you teach ? If so , is it in person or online ? How can prospective students get in touch ?
I do teach - I ’ m available to travel nationally and internationally to conduct hands on classes . I am happy to work with people and / or businesses to create a tailor made demonstration or class to suit their requirements . You can contact me through my website www . commiescupcakes . com or alternatively email me at commies . cupcakes @ gmail . com
more information
Business : Commie ' s Cupcakes Name : Amber Comadira-Smith instagram . com / commies . cupcakes www . commiescupcakes . com