How to Top-Coat, Outline, and Flood Cookies

Ready to express your inner cookie artist? Well then, you're in the right place! Welcome to Lesson 6 of "Julia M. Usher's Ultimate Cookie Decorating Series"!
NOTE: This video is one of 16 videos originally filmed for my DVD series, which was discontinued in November 2014. Select videos from the series will be released to KZbin over time, but my app will remain the only place where you can find all of the original DVD videos. To learn more about my app, click here: www.papertrell.com/apps/Julia_...
Top-coating a cookie so that it's perfectly smooth and bubble-free is often easier said than done. In this video, I share my tips for achieving consistently smooth top coats, and explain when it makes sense to top-coat versus outline and flood. As extra gifts, I reveal a trick that prevents cratering in small, flooded spaces and step-by-step instructions for the needlepoint technique - essentially outlining and flooding taken to the extreme!
IF YOU LIKE THIS VIDEO, please give it a thumbs up and subscribe to my channel. It is only through your support that I can afford to make more videos. THANK YOU!
RELATED LINKS:
How to Make and Handle Parchment Cones video: • How to Make and Handle...
Royal Icing and Consistency Adjustments tutorial: www.juliausher.com/kitchen_and...
Gingerbread Cookie recipe: www.juliausher.com/blog/more/c...
NOTES ON STORING LEFTOVER ICING:
First, I prefer to use icing on the day the color is mixed, as, for whatever reason, the color seems to set more stably (without spotting or mottling) if it hasn't sat too long or been stored overnight in the refrigerator. That said, I typically only make as much icing as I plan to use, so there is little waste. HOWEVER, if you end up with lots left over or feel compelled to make your icing in advance, and so must store it, then cover the surface flush with plastic wrap (to keep the icing from crusting) and then foil and store in the fridge. It should be fine there for a few days, though some separation may occur. Simply bring the icing to room temperature and re-beat it before use to restore its original consistency. You may find that the icing has dehydrated a bit, so you may also need to add a touch of water. Some people freeze their icing with success, but for all of the reasons noted above, I do not freeze mine.
CREDITS:
Video by: Joe Baran, www.workingmansfilm.com/
TO PURCHASE MY BOOKS OR APP:
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TO JOIN COOKIE CONNECTION, MY ONLINE COOKIE DECORATING COMMUNITY:
cookieconnection.juliausher.co...
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[@idiotmartsu1182]

her hand is so steady she could be a surgeon! beautiful cookies

[@Angel_Hearted50]

Creative is our middle name. KZbin has been so instrumental in connecting me with talented individuals like yourself who unselfishly share their tricks of the trade. It is for that reason I Thank You....

[@emim.5092]

I'm so so so glad I found this video!! You're so good at teaching, and this video is still helpful 6 years later!

[@Highinsight7]

Julia...!!! Thank you SO much for sharing this with us...!!! This is a MASTER class that could coast up to $100 a class... OR more... and you so kindly GIVE it to us...! I'm a BIG Lambeth Fan...

[@AnaLuiza-vf5wy]

Julia, you teach in a very didactic way! I learned so much from your videos and app, everything you do with the cookies is fantastic! And I'm also glad you have such a clear pronunciation, since english isn't my first language! Thank you!

[@AnaLuiza-vf5wy]

Thank you, for the lessons and for the kindness!! =)

[@nazaninka]

Real beautiful artwork Julia. More beautiful than your artwork is sharing your talent with the rest of the world and teaching it to us. Beautiful soul, beautiful work. And you are a very good teacher. :)

[@michelegallant7508]

You are amazing! I love that you use every aspect of your work as an opportunity to give instruction. As a beginner, I am especially pleased that you show how to correct any mistakes that may occur during the process. I have watched many videos over the past few weeks, and, in my opinion, you are the most comprehensive instructor thus far.

[@KatieNovaRose]

"don't move onto other videos even if they sound sexier" ahahahaha this is the greatest.

[@lilmzbossyb3]

Thank you so much for this video. You're a life saver! You are so very thorough and meticulous in your descriptions and details, and it really helps that you show what to expect or the final outcome of various techniques and mistakes. Very helpful.

[@inmyopinionwisdom4986]

Beautiful Cookies...I'm so inspired by Ms. Usher. I can hardly contain myself! Tomorrow...I will attempt to make some of her beautiful works of art. MASTERPIECES!!!

[@ginavandewater]

17:10 You. Are. Absolutely. Amazing ❤️ I’ve already watched 10 videos on your channel so far and I am BLOWN AWAY with all of your techniques! Not only have they been my favorite videos to watch on cookie decorating, but it is even more amazing seeing you smile during it all! It really shows your passion in cooking, decorating, all things sweets, etc! Love your work @Julia M Usher (:

[@mydarlingisa]

Amazing detail work! This is what I have been aiming for. Thank you!

[@barbararey843]

I do embroidery work and am learning cake decorating this is right up my alley. Beautiful. Thank you for the lesson.

[@dgpowell]

By far one of the best tutorials on KZbin. I enjoyed ur clear and concise manner of explaining the details. Great job.

[@barbaraabell8934]

Thank you for these videos. I just completed a batch of Valentine's cookies. My friends will be impressed!

[@lyndabartram2446]

Despite 30 years of baking, I've never made royal icing before, nevermind this sort of decorating. Decided to make 5 dozing for an event, and turned to your videos for help. You're an awesome teacher, and I ended up with some beautiful cookies, so thank you so much!

[@frogsnack7072]

I practiced this on oreos today so I could focus on learning the techniques without overthinking the perfect cookies or designs, it worked out great and I can't wait to get more time in!

[@hopelovefaith1321]

Hi Julia , I'm new to your channel, I'm in awe of your talent & creativity!! Your work is simply stunning!!! I luv your calm yet informative method of teaching!! Thankyou 🌸

[@patriciapatane7926]

.

[@ashkaskola5203]

You are the best teacher I came across. Also fair play for using every day tools instead of fancy special devices, you show that thinking does not hurt :)

[@jaimietheresa]

This is the first (and only) video I’ve watched about royal icing and I’m so glad I did before diving into it. Great instructing and I’ll be looking for more of your videos 👍🏻

[@imalive19]

dear Julia, you're such a great artist! so much imagination, creativity, patience and such good skills! I love your tutorials!

[@marielbutton7349]

these videos have come in handy even after years of decorating. I find myself always coming back to the basics..

[@soleniak]

I make christmas cookies with my daughters every year and pass them out to the neighbors..this year will be the best by far thanks to your instructions. Thank you and merry christmas!

[@jannikouringstensgaard8414]

Definately the best series of videos to learn all about cookie art! I was a little intimidated before but you explain in so much detail, and I will definately give it a try! :)

[@cecilyerker]

I love how you approach the techniques of making cookies with the eye of your engineering background. All artistic mediums demand mastery of the tools and the skills first before you can experiment with creative expression.

[@wendykidd]

It's so much fun to watch you work, and I love your explanations of how and why things work or don't work. I have been incredibly frustrated every time I attempt to decorate a cookie, so I think maybe this just isn't for me, but I will definitely continue to watch your videos and marvel at how easy YOU make it look.

[@Lowrunnn]

Your videos are so relaxing. I could watch you decorate for hours!

[@successalive5]

Quite advanced techniques. I am absolutely blown away by your gift. You are creative, intricate, and dynamic in your craft. This was worth stay up late to watch.

[@marionanderson7678]

You are a lifesaver!!! Your video for top coating cookies with the brush handle saved me oodles of time and mess!!!

[@terrialstadt8470]

Wow, thank you, …… So enjoy watching you work with these cookies, it truly is an art form!... Need to get one of your books!

[@thescranline]

WOW!!! Julie youre amazing! And youre really good at teaching. I've been watching your videos all day, and I feel confident enough to give this a go :0)

[@alanacpt]

I have been blessed by seeing witnessing this

[@adamrocks620]

thank you for answering so quickly. I used the coating consistency and it worked beautifully

[@elizabethbennet4791]

yes she is!!

[@localfoodandrestaurantinfo9565]

This was such a great video to watch. I love making cookies but sometimes get a bit repetitive. This puts a whole new angle on ideas so thanks!

[@sarahq7569]

Thank you so much. I love how you pay attention to every helpful detail

[@sonjagraham7339]

Thank you very much for the easy to follow instructions for the Royal icing. Flooding my Christmas cookies today went beautifully!

[@BariMarcusAnthony]

Julia - you’re simply amazing - love your artistic work on decorating cookies. Christmas 2018 is just around the corner and I would like to get ready decorating plus make sugar and gingerbread cookies. I took a week of baking way back so your video is indeed enlightening . You might say I need a refresher course . Thank you ☺️

[@ladysienna2000]

Hi Julia, I am just getting started in cookie decorating. Thank you so much for sharing your talent, I hope someday I can decorate even as half as well as you do!

[@jennobrien3590]

You do beautiful work and designs. Thank you for spending your time and sharing. I learned a few things and can't hardly wait to try my hand at some more intense designs.

[@emilyelizabeth7245]

I have just discovered your channel and wish it had not taken me this long to find it - wow! These videos are fun, informative, detailed and very enjoyable to watch - not to mention incredibly educational. Thank you so much for such a wonderful channel.

[@GodoyNyd]

Just watched 4 in a row! Love your videos! I will be trying out your techniques tonight. My first time, eek!!

[@keetsches]

you are such a patient and intricate artist! you're very inspiring to me and i can't wait to try the techniques you've outlined here. thank you so much for your videos. xoxo

[@DalaraLacrimi]

You're such a great artist, I really admire you!! seriously, you're awesome

[@stormerbuzz352]

This channel is definitely going to be where I come first for all the cookie decorating tips I could need!

[@kelli51]

Oh my, you are good! You are very talented and a brilliant teacher. Thank you so much!

[@veronicaaldonatti423]

Hello Julia, thanks to share with us your knowleadge. This is sugar art!

[@user-zz3gy4fn2x]

У тебя золотые руки!!!!! Такой красоты я ещё нигде не видела!!!! Спасибо за доставлено удовольствие!!!

[@kellyjean4981]

Really enjoy watching your videos. You are very thorough and your work is inspiring.

[@bocaseyphotography9697]

I've always enjoyed baking etc... and recently decided to try my hand at cookies and royal icing... your videos are amazing, and very informative... you make it look so easy. My first go wasn't that great, but wasn't a bomb... definitely going to take a huge amount of practice to do 1/2 of what you do. Thanks for the great tutorials.

[@shuggaraecreation2009]

Hi Julia, I would like to express my gratitude on your video for royal icing this video has been the most helpful compared to others. I no longer struggle with the correct consistency due to the accurate measurements you provided per 1 cup of glue , due to this new found knowledge my techniques are improving thank you so so very much!

[@kimmyg73]

I have used many different recipes for royal icing-this is by far the best. It will be my new go to!!

[@kimberland8910]

I want to try the needlepoint look, but had a grand ideal for Valentines day cookies. A musical score, you make my heart sing, somewhat simpler an still have the look I was wanting to try!

[@taralyntheakston9769]

Your videos are excellent. I return to them every Christmas when I do my baking. Thank you!!

[@JuliaMUsher]

So very glad to hear this! Thanks for watching, and happy holidays!

[@kmorrison0514]

I'm so inspired! Edible art! Thank you for sharing.

[@katywuste9054]

This is beautiful and elegant. I can't stop watching your videos, they all make me want to go away and try them. I haven't watched any that I don't like

[@lydiavazquez4411]

I love your videos and God bless your steady hand. Thank you so much. Beautiful work.

[@sharekindandadrenaline1920]

I love your videos!! Thank you so so much!!!! You’re a natural teacher.

[@craftingwithjean5599]

I appreciate each of your videos. They are thorough and help us to understand. Thank You! Found your channel today and subscribed.

[@MillikanVersuch]

Julia, your work is fantastic! thank you for sharing your gift. I don't think I have ever seen a person with a more steady hand than you. Absolutely beautiful work. The only draw back is I would feel terrible eating these works of art ;)

[@ForgettingAlice]

Wow your hand is so steady it's crazy, my lines always come out wobbly!

[@katybug1100]

OK. I need a t-shirt that says "I LOVE JULIA!!!" You are AMAZINGLY talented. THANK YOU for sharing your skills with us!!! :)

[@deenahdzz1743]

with the letters in cookie form!!!! 😍😍😍😍

[@elora1089]

Hi Julia, I'm new at this baking thing and am so glad that you have added vids to add to your book! I am looking forward to following along and getting your book!) Thank you again! ~Elora Zimmerman

[@elizabethmohammed9417]

This is my first time viewing and wow. It's amazing the talent God has instilled in us. You inspire me. I have never venture in cookie making, but after watching you I think I might give it a try. You are a very good teacher. Your work is very neat and beautiful. Keep up the good work. May God bless the work of your hands.

[@newsworthy7724]

I enjoy watching you decorate these cookies. You remind me of myself. I'm a florist and when I'm designing I don't always know what the final arrangement will look like. It just happens!!!! LOL I'm always looking for new ideas to keep my busy mind happy. ( and it keeps me off the streets!!!!heheheh ) You really take the time to give as much information as possible. You think i'd be done with baking after Christmas. But I see these cookies as art in sugar. So help the person that tries to eat one!

[@josykeully637]

Thank you Julia. You are an amazing teacher 👏🏼

[@huntlymyhuntly]

You have a great skill .Thank you for sharing all your lovely things

[@priyanka1989ism]

u explained so nicely..very helpful..thanks

[@risepek]

Love your videos! The explanations are really helpful.

[@marceliv.malaquias464]

sou apaixonada por suas técnicas, obrigado por vi ensinar tão Bem! sou de Petropolis/Rio de Janeiro /Brasil

[@maryjanemccoy1159]

Amazing! I can't wait to start getting into decorating cookies!

[@mushpaymensa3635]

Just THANK YOU! Making this information available to us is greatly appreciated. 🙏🏽

[@JuliaMUsher]

You are so welcome!

[@anamariaassisdemoraes7483]

You are so good on what you do. Everything turns out so beautiful. Congratulations!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@JuliaMUsher]

Thank you so much!

[@catb1557]

Wow! You are amazing. There aren't a lot of 20 minute KZbin videos I watch but I was glued to this.

[@catb1557]

I watched a good majority of your videos last night (including the 4-video series) and plan to practice some of your techniques this weekend. I do appreciate the clarity in your videos. I am so glad I found your channel (and FB page and Pinterest!). Thankful to follow along. And thank you so much for replying - I noticed you reply back to your "fans" and think that is so amazing of you.

[@twaimzisbae2378]

Amazing and it definitely shows that you put a lot of effort into it... When you don't have to!

[@ohnatural5504]

I always wanted to know how to decorate my sugar cookies, seen a bunch of videos and came across this one. I'm SO glad I did. You're work is so intricate and beautiful. By far the best baking teacher on KZbin, no joke. You're very clear with your words and take it step by step for us. You just got yourself a new subscriber, hehe. Btw, are those flowers in the background real, or are they eatable?? They look like decorated sugar cookies haha. Thanks!

[@ohnatural5504]

***** thanks

[@teamjacob1992]

I went to KZbin thinking I'd love to make beautiful Christmas cookies I always see pictures of. I've watched your videos and am riveted. I don't really think I have the time to cultivate the talent needed to make these. I do enjoy watching your videos though. Thank you!

[@susankapustka7055]

You probably don't have the time to "cultivate the talent", but you might have time to make up 1 or 2 colors and play. I actually used store-bought flat cookies to start. Make a few bags, make a few textures, make a few mistakes and make a big mess. Refrigerate the leftover icing until the next time. Make some cookies for this Christmas and photograph them so you can compare them to the cookies from NEXT Christmas. It is really just dots and lines. Go for it.

[@GreatNate]

This was really helpful. Thanks for sharing!

[@07superboink]

your works are beautiful! thanks for the tips and techniques

[@katwoman9410]

You are so talented! Thank you for sharing!

[@dplsnolol]

You're absolutely inspiring! Your videos are so informative, fun and really useful. Have you ever considered teaching? You'd make a wonderful professor, I think. Thank you so much for making these available to people like me; I can't wait to watch the rest of your videos and I can't wait for more!

[@sincitybg]

this is not just decorating cookies , this is ART !!!

[@lubiakagonzalez4278]

You are great. I am from costa rica your videos are my inspiration. Thank you.

[@VIVIANAMUDD]

I just discovered your channel and I am mesmerized by them. Thank you. Greetings from sunny PR.

[@archanaseth5010]

Dear Julia I am really amazed by your stunning creativity. I also love this and do many things but the way you do that is mind blowing, a very big salute to you. God bless you.👌👌👏👏💐❤️

[@JuliaMUsher]

Thank you so much!

[@GenericMcName]

You must have the patience of several saints and grade school teachers to be able to sit still and make these without wanting to murder the closest fluffy animal to you. It's truly impressive what you have been showing us! Thank you for teaching us! Your videos, HowToCookThat and RosieCakeDiva's have really ignited my growing passion for cute bakery items!! -A digital hug from a lad from Aarhus, Denmark

[@ashleydunbar7398]

I made a ton of mistakes trying to outline and flood my cookies without instructions. Now, after watching this video I will try again, and I'm sure I will do waaay better.

[@Elin-Esteem84]

Holy cow, the end result is so beautiful

[@elinorbenhamo2120]

I have nothing else i can say! You Rock! i made your cookies and they were a hit!

[@misharavchek6976]

Beautiful kitchen and great video. Subscribed!♥

[@rhenybaby5363]

you have just become my FAVORITE ICER! there is a easter cookie decorating contest at a little party, which I am going to, and since I used to do cakes,(20 years ago) I get to supply the icing. im outta practice-WAY OUTTA PRACTICE!- you are awesome!

[@Katrina.for_art]

wowv-so relaxing and hypnotic to watch this being done . I feel like a kid again totally absorbed in edible art.

[@dborgs52]

3/08/18, Just started, you are a true artist. Hope I can have a fraction of your skill.

[@bettyjomcdonald7394]

You are such a good teacher. Thank you.

[@JuliaMUsher]

You're very welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@JimmyKSimmonsOfficial]

My first time making Christmas cookies with royal icing was this year - did 2 batches - first batch the cookies were perfect but not so much the piping/flooding HA! This is a true art form - I am a guitarist of over 30 years and it seems very similar - I am hooked on learning this new art form!

[@JuliaMUsher]

So glad to hear I've got another royal icing convert! Happy decorating!

[@mreinstein48]

This is Art!! So gorgeous! great job!

[@sylviabeukes2728]

Hi Julia, this is just plain amazing.... Thanks.

[@amydelaserna]

so pretty, those red hearts are beautiful !

[@cinthiapatronalonzo.6167]

21:30 You are a true artist! Those perfect thin lines!

[@saimaxene7090]

Oh my god your patience is amazing. If I made that I ain't eating it, I'm gonna frame it until it molds

[@larashia1127]

This is a Great learning session/tutorial.

[@mycatskingdom]

Wow;this is very wonderfull,creative and amazing; thank you so much Julia for sharing your recipes with us. Could you tell me how to make the cookie, Thank you

[@luzsaucedo5138]

Estupendo y fantástico trabajo, felicidades