If you liked the previous way of turning our Wafer Paper into edible fabric than you're going to LOVE this new method that's even more flexible, stretchable, and durable! Our Wafer Paper was already known for its versatility, but now, with this updated technique, you can take your edible creations to a whole new level.
Whether you're a professional cake artist or just experimenting in your kitchen, this method using gelatin and vegetable oil (or glycerin) gives you a fabric-like sheet that’s not only bendy and beautiful, but also has a surprising amount of stretch. It’s perfect for ultra-realistic ruffles, pleats, bows, and even fashion-inspired edible details.
For this tutorial, we’re once again teaming up with Denise (@denises_delights_) as she shows you how to transform your 0.60 mm Wafer Paper Premium into a completely stretchable edible fabric.
Materials You’ll Need
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paper2eat 0.60 mm Wafer Paper Premium
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paper2eat Edible Ink
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Edible Ink Printer
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Unflavored Gelatin (2 tablespoons)
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Vegetable Oil or Food-Grade Glycerin (2 tablespoons)
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Water (4 tablespoons)
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Cornstarch (to reduce tackiness)
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Soft Paint Brushes
1. Mix and Bloom Your Gelatin Base
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine:
2 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or glycerin
4 tablespoons of water
Let this sit for a few minutes until the gelatin blooms. Then microwave the mixture for about 30 seconds.
2. Brush the First Side
Place your printed or plain Wafer Paper sheet on a flat, clean surface.
Using a soft paintbrush, apply a thin, even layer of the gelatin mixture all across the top side of the Wafer Paper. Make sure to coat edge to edge.
Wait 5 minutes to allow it to partially set.
Then, using a clean brush, lightly dust cornstarch over the surface to take away any stickiness.
3. Flip and Repeat
Once the top side has set and is lightly dusted, gently flip the sheet over.
Brush the same gelatin mixture onto the back side of the Wafer Paper, again making sure to coat it evenly. This time, wait 10 minutes before dusting it with cornstarch.
Carefully dust the back just like you did the front, then brush off any excess once fully set.
4. Stretch, Fold, and Shape
Your Wafer Paper has now transformed into super flexible, stretchable edible fabric.
Compared to the previous method, this version is noticeably more pliable and easier to manipulate into more realistic shapes. You can cut it, fold it, pleat it, or drape it in countless creative ways.
Ways to Use Your Edible Fabric
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Wrap a cake with elegant edible drapes
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Tie bows that look like silk but are 100% edible
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Pleat and ruffle for sugar couture-style cake designs
Extra Tips for this Method
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Test your microwave carefully. Overheating the gelatin mixture can cause clumps or scorching
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Use printed Wafer Paper for added visual impact. This technique works beautifully with designs printed using edible ink
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Add shimmer or color with edible dusts for an extra glam effect
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Cornstarch is key. Don’t skip it or your fabric may remain too tacky to work with