Dusting Method

1. Pour a small amount of fine-grain luster dust or shimmer dust onto a clean work surface. Ensure the shimmer is a fine-grain variety so that it will stick to the fondant's surface without pre-moistening it. Use care while pouring it: The dust can quickly fall out of the jar, resulting in a mess on your work surface and a loss of the product.

2. Use a dry, soft-bristled food paintbrush. Dip and swirl it into the powder and gently tap it on the work surface to remove any chunks of dust hiding in the bristles.

3. Swirl the brush and luster dust over the fondant using a buffing motion. Work the dust into the areas that need shimmer. Add more shimmer dust to the brush and repeat until you reach the desired consistency.

Painting Method

1. Mix shimmer dust with a clear alcohol, such as gin or vodka, in a cup. Vodka dries clear and evaporates quickly, preventing your fondant from becoming too moist and sagging from the cake. Add only a few drops of alcohol to moisten the dust and create a liquid.

2. Dip a clean, soft food brush into the shimmer paint and apply it directly to the fondant’s surface. Continue painting until you’ve reached the desired sheen.

3. Add additional drops of alcohol if your shimmer paint dries out.

Spraying Method

1. Buy a luster or sparkle cake decorating spray from your local craft or cake decorating supply store. These typically come in silver, white and gold, but some brands carry other metallic colors.

2. Put your decorated cake on a surface covered with newspaper, vinyl or another protective covering to prevent shimmer dust from sticking to your table.

3. Shake the can of luster spray and remove the cap. Make a test spray on the newspaper to ensure the can isn’t clogged, and the spray is uniform. Hold the can at a 45-degree angle and at least 6 inches from the surface of your cake.

4. Use a feathering motion to spray the surface of your cake. Spray in light layers and gradually add more until you’ve reached the desired consistency.