Basic Level 1 Cakes

• For competing at the beginner level, the cake will be a single layer and the decorations are simple. Cover the top and sides of the cake completely with white icing, using a spatula to apply and spread the icing on the cake's surface. Create a border of green leaves using green icing piped from a pastry bag with a leaf tip. Accent the corners of the cake with drop flowers in a color of your choice using the drop flower tip on a pastry bag. Add more leaves around the flower, if desired. Such a cake makes use of the skills learned in Level 1 cake decorating.

Level 2 Intermediate Cakes

• Level 2 cake decorating skills are slightly more advanced than the basic skills. Such cakes are one or two layers and make use of writing, multiple borders and more flower styles than drop. Make a "basket" cake for this level. Pipe a basket weave on the sides of the cake. Cover the top of the cake with an assortment of flowers and leaves to resemble a floral basket made from cake icing.

Level 3 Advanced Cakes

• Advanced cake decorators learn new techniques such as using rolled fondant, molding marzipan and making gum paste flowers. Cover the cake with rolled fondant, which looks smoother than butter cream icing. Make flowers from gum paste and bees or other insects out of marzipan; almond slices serve as wings for marzipan insects.

Level 4 Master Cakes

• The highest level in cake decorating in 4-H is Level 4 for master decorators. This level requires advanced artistic techniques and all skills learned in lower levels. For example, try your hand at making a Yule log cake. These are rolled chocolate cakes covered in chocolate frosting to resemble a log. Shaped marzipan mushrooms, fondant leaves and butter cream pine cones accent the cake to give it a realistic look.