Using the CelShapes (Stamens) mould :

Use Flowerpaste (Gumpaste) in this mould. (NB. The techniques are similar for the CelShapes (Lacework), Snowflakes, Outlines and CelScript3 moulds.) The mould should be clean and dry and placed onto a non-slip mat. It should not be necessary to put cornflour (cornstarch) or trex (vegetable fat) into the mould. If the paste seems a little sticky, then lightly dust the paste with a little cornflour before placing in the mould - it is better to dust the paste rather than the mould.

STEP 1 : Take a small piece of paste, which is just enough to fill the mould shape, leaving a little excess and press into place. (Shown below left, with the Lacework mould)

STEP 2 : Using a fine palette knife, trim away excess paste, one way and from the centre. It is important to cut into the paste at a slight angle to the mould surface and then, using a SAWING action, cut away with the knife fairly flat to the mould. Hold the paste firmly in the mould with fingers and move them down the paste as the blade cuts through the paste (shown above right, with Lacework mould)

STEP 3 : Trim away the rest of the excess paste from the other side. (Shown below, with the Stamens mould)

STEP 4: Smooth over the mould with a finger to neaten and to remove any "feathered" edges.

STEP 5: For a flower centre shape, first release each of the stamen ends in turn with a pin and then flick out the complete centre (this needs a sharp flicking action to avoid distorting the shape - be bold and with a little practice you will be able to remove any shape successfully).

STEP 6: For the lily stamens (above, right), you should lift the solid bar slightly and then peel the stamens away from the mould - take care, but peeling too slowly can result in stretched stamens. Roll to put the longer pistil in the centre of the 6 stamens.

STEP 7: Using some soft sponge, press into the centre of a ring of stamens to shape, with the end of a CelStick or ball tool. For the lily stamens, make a wire loop and hang to dry before dusting etc.

STEP 8: Place stamens in the flower centre, securing with a little softened paste.