How to Make a Cake Topper (Card, Wafer Paper & Chocolate)

Cake toppers can be made using card and glitter paper, edible wafer paper, fondant, or chocolate. The best method depends on whether you want an edible topper, a reusable keepsake, or a quick DIY solution for a celebration.

This guide explains the most reliable ways to make a cake topper, including correct sizing, materials, common mistakes, and when it’s better to choose a professionally made bespoke cake topper instead.

Quick Answers: Making a Cake Topper

• Best material for beginners: Cardstock (300gsm or thicker)
• Best edible option: Wafer paper for light designs, chocolate for solid toppers
• Best size: 1–1.5 inches smaller than the cake diameter
• Best stick: Wooden skewer or lollipop stick
• Most common mistake: Making the design too thin or too large
• Best for weddings: Professionally made bespoke cake toppers

What You Need to Make a Cake Topper

For a card or glitter cake topper

• Cardstock (300gsm or thicker)
• Optional glitter or mirror card
• Strong craft glue or double-sided tape
• Lollipop sticks or wooden skewers
• Scissors or a craft knife
• Optional foam pads for layering

For an edible wafer paper cake topper

• Wafer paper sheets
• Edible pens or edible paint
• Royal icing or edible glue
• A flat, dry surface for shaping and drying

For a chocolate cake topper

• Chocolate melts (dark, milk, or white)
• Piping bag or small food bag
• Baking parchment
• Printed template (placed under parchment)
• Wooden skewer (optional)
• Fridge or freezer to set

How Big Should a Cake Topper Be?

Sizing is one of the most common mistakes when making cake toppers.
A simple rule that works for most cakes:
• Your cake topper should be 1 to 1.5 inches smaller than the cake diameter

Examples:

• 6-inch cake → topper around 4.5–5 inches wide
• 8-inch cake → topper around 6.5–7 inches wide
• Cupcakes → keep designs compact and bold, avoiding tiny detail
A topper that’s too large will look cramped, while one that’s too small can get lost visually.

How to Make a Card or Glitter Cake Topper

• Choose bold lettering or a simple shape – thin lines bend easily.
• Cut two identical layers (front and back).
• If you want depth, add foam pads between the layers.
• Fix the stick to the back layer first, ensuring it’s straight.
• Sandwich the front layer on top, fully hiding the stick.
• Leave the topper flat until completely dry.

Tip: Always test the topper standing upright in a mug or glass before placing it on the cake.

How to Make an Edible Wafer Paper Cake Topper

• Cut your wafer paper to shape using clean, dry scissors.
• Decorate with edible pens or edible paint.
• Allow the design to dry fully before handling.
• Attach to the cake using a small amount of royal icing or edible glue.
• Place the topper close to serving time to prevent curling.

Important: Wafer paper reacts to humidity. Store flat in a dry container until needed.

How to Make a Chocolate Cake Topper

• Melt chocolate gently and transfer to a piping bag.
• Place a printed template under baking parchment.
• Pipe the design using thicker lines than you think you need.
• If using a stick, place it into the chocolate while still wet.
• Chill until fully set, then peel carefully from the parchment.

Tip: Thin chocolate lines snap easily. Thickness equals strength.

Common Cake Topper Problems (And How to Fix Them)

My cake topper falls over

• Use a thicker stick
• Make the design wider or shorter
• Use two sticks instead of one

My glitter topper looks messy

• Avoid thin fonts
• Use a clean back layer to hide glue and sticks
• Keep shapes bold and simple

My wafer paper topper is curling

• Reduce moisture
• Use minimal edible glue
• Store flat and dry until serving

My chocolate topper snapped

• Pipe thicker lines
• Allow it to fully set before handling
• Avoid lifting from thin areas

When It’s Better to Buy a Bespoke Cake Topper

DIY cake toppers are ideal for quick celebrations and simple designs.

A bespoke cake topper is often the better choice when:
• The cake is for a wedding or professional event
• Photos matter and you want a clean, polished finish
• You need a specific theme or personalised design
• You want matching cupcake toppers
• You want something made-to-order and delivered ready to use

Bespoke Cake Toppers UK | Personalised & Custom Cake Toppers – Heaven Sent Cake Toppers

Final Tip Before You Start

Always match the topper style to the cake. A simple cake suits a bold topper, while a detailed cake often looks better with a clean, minimal design. When in doubt, keep it simple – clarity always looks more professional than over-decoration.

Enjoy making beautiful cake toppers !