Are you looking to add a unique touch to your cake designs? In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to recreate the iconic Ginkgo Biloba branch with wafer paper! Not only that, but you will also learn how to color wafer paper in gold and wire wafer paper leaves. These fancy leaves are known for their unique fan-like shape and vibrant golden-yellow color in the fall, Ginkgo leaves add an elegant, natural touch to any cake design.
Whether you’re designing a wedding cake or a special occasion dessert, these edible leaves will elevate your creations.
Read the step-by-step instructions or follow along with the video below as I teach you how to cut, shape, wire, and color wafer paper leaves to achieve a realistic effect.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need
Materials
- Wafer Paper (I recommend using 0.27mm)
- My Wafer Paper Ginkgo Biloba TemplateÂ
- Gold Petal Dust – for that striking gilded finish
- White Floral Tape
- 26-gauge Floral Wire
Tools
Download Wafer Paper Ginkgo Biloba Template
Get instant access to this and 37 more wafer paper flower tutorials and templates in my All-In-One Wafer Paper guide + 3 bonuses!​
How to Create Wafer Paper Ginkgo Leaves Step-by-Step
Step 1: Preparing Your Materials
Start by cutting the floral wire into 4 equal lengths. Prepare your wafer paper template, and cut the necessary pieces of wafer paper. We will be doubling the wafer paper for added thickness.
Step 2: Assembling the Leaves
Using the wafer paper conditioner, lightly brush one side of the paper. Place the wire in the middle and sandwich another piece of wafer paper on top. Once the two layers are sealed together, position your template and cut out the leaf shape.
Step 3: Adding Texture
While the paper is still soft, use the sharp end of your Dresden tool to add vein-like textures. Gently draw lines across the leaf to mimic the natural texture of Ginkgo Biloba leaves.
Step 4: Wiring and Shaping
Once your leaves are dry, assemble them using floral tape. Wrap each leaf stem with the tape, stacking leaves at different heights to create a natural branch look. Bend the wires to give your branch an organic, non-linear shape.
Step 5: Coloring the Leaves
Mix your gold petal dust with alcohol to create an edible paint. Carefully brush the mixture onto your leaves and stems, covering them in a rich, metallic gold. Let the leaves dry completely before arranging them on your cake.
Time to Try It for Yourself!
Now you know how to create beautiful wafer paper Ginkgo Biloba leaves that will add elegance and texture to any cake design. Whether you use them for a wedding cake or a modern dessert, these leaves are sure to impress!
Download the Wafer Paper Ginkgo Leaf Template above and start crafting today.
And share your creations with me @FloreaCakes so I can feature your work!
