Top it Off: Handmade Cupcake Toppers
13 March 2009
Author: Tracy Babineau
Reach into your paper crafting supplies the next time you have to plan a party. There is no better way to create a party theme than to make the decorations yourself. Why not coordinate the cupcake toppers too?
In these project examples I made some cake topper accessories to go along with a pirate- themed birthday. I also created lily pad cupcake toppers to go along with a frog- themed children’s party. 
I do have a couple of tips when making paper crafted projects that will end up on top of food that will be ingested. In the case of my lily pad cupcakes, I cut circles from acetate and affixed them to the bottom of the lily pad. This way the icing won’t stick to the paper and stain it, and the lily pads can be used again or taken home as favors. The same goes for the pirate-themed cake accents. I placed acetate pieces between paper products and used skewers attached to the accents to place them on the cake. You can purchase all kinds of helpful cake decorating items at large craft stores or at some bakeries.
Handmade cupcake toppers are also a great way to get children involved in the party planning. Let them help with the design and teach them how to plan, host and give a party. They will enjoy the party and learn from your experience – what more could a parent ask for?