1. Why "Layering" Changes Everything

If you just print an image and glue it to a toothpick, it looks flat and often curls from the moisture of the icing. Professional toppers use layers.

By placing a layer of Glitter Cardstock or a solid color behind your printed design, you create a sturdy "frame". Using Foam Dots between these layers adds 3D depth, creating natural shadows that look amazing in photos.

2. The Foundation: Paper Weight & Food Safety

Not all glitter paper is safe for cakes. Cheap craft glitter "sheds" (cai), meaning your guests might end up eating plastic micro-glitter. Yuck.

For the printed layer, use Glossy Photo Paper (180g-230g) for vibrant colors that stand out against the glitter background.

3. Cupcake Toppers: The Manual Punch Hack

You don't need a fancy cutting machine for cupcakes. A Lever Punch is faster than a Cricut for simple circles!

1. Print: Print your 2-inch designs on cardstock.
2. Punch: Use a 2-inch circle punch to cut them out perfectly in seconds.
3. Backing: Punch a 2.5-inch circle (or scallop) from glitter paper.
4. Assemble: Stick the print onto the glitter with a Foam Dot. Glue the stick to the back. Done!

4. Cake Toppers: The Sandwich Method

Large toppers need to be strong. We recommend the "Sandwich Method" to hide the ugly glue and stick:

• Layer 1 (Front): Your printed design or cut text.
• Layer 2 (Middle): The stick + Foam Dots.
• Layer 3 (Back): A duplicate of the background shape (plain cardstock) to cover the stick.

This ensures the topper looks neat even if the cake is on a central table visible from all sides.

5. Sticks: Acrylic vs. Wood

Stop using toothpicks or BBQ skewers! They absorb grease from the buttercream and look "crafty".

The Upgrade: Use Clear Acrylic Rods (2mm or 3mm thick). They look like glass, are food-safe, wipe clean, and disappear into the cake, making your topper look like it's floating.

6. The Topper Toolkit (Our Top Picks)

These specific tools are chosen for precision and food safety.

Time Saver

Fiskars Medium Lever Punch

The fastest way to cut perfect circles for cupcakes. No batteries, no software, just punch. Essential for batch working.

Manual Tool

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3D Effect

Outus 3D Foam Dots (8 Sheets)

These little adhesive squares create the "lift" between layers. Includes different sizes for small details and large text.

Essential Adhesive

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Food Safe

Vicenpal 8 Inch Acrylic Rods (120 Pcs)

2mm diameter clear rods. Sturdy, invisible, and hygienic. Much more professional than wooden skewers.

Pro Finish

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No Mess

40 Sheets No-Shed Glitter Cardstock

Premium cardstock where the glitter doesn't flake off. 20 colors included to match any party theme.

Safe & Sparkly

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Precision

Kuretake Zig 2 Way Glue Pen (3 Pcs)

A ballpoint glue pen! Crucial for gluing very thin script fonts or intricate cuts where a glue gun would be too messy.

Fine Detail

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7. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Silhouette or Cricut for this?

Absolutely! Machines are best for intricate Cake Toppers (names, ages). For simple round Cupcake Toppers, the manual punch (linked above) is actually faster.

What glue works best for acrylic rods?

Hot glue creates the strongest bond with acrylic. Use a small dab and cover it with a cardstock backing for a clean look.

Why does my topper curl?

Moisture from the icing or thin paper causes curling. Always use heavy cardstock (200gsm+) and ideally mount it on a second layer of glitter cardstock for rigidity.