Modeling Chocolate Sand Dollars & Scallop Shells

This tutorial demonstrates how to sculpt 3D sand dollars and scallop shells out of modeling chocolate to decorate a beach themed cake. This is page 4 of 4 of the Modeling Chocolate Seashells Tutorial. Follow this link to watch the VIDEO version of this tutorial.

VIDEO: Modeling Chocolate Seashells

Step-by-Step Instructions

The shape made using the following steps A-D may be used to form both the scallop shell and sand dollar designs.

A. Roll out a rope of modeling chocolate with even thickness. Cut equal portions from the rope. Form the portions into balls.

B. Space the balls out on a piece of parchment paper as you would cookies, allowing lots of room around each one.

C. Flatten the balls with the innermost palm of the hand.

D. Use quick sweeping motions with the fingers and palm of the hand to round and flatten each piece further.

How to Make Sand Dollars

1. Imprint the shape of a five petal flower or star using a small pointed oval cutter (found in this set of micro-cutters).

2. Poke holes between the petals on the back of the sand dollar with a tiny round plunger cutter. You can poke holes in any configuration that you want.

3. Dust the shells lightly with cocoa powder using a blush brush.

How to Make Scallop Shells

1. Emboss a line pattern that radiates out from one central point on the edge of the shell. Use the pointed sculpting implements from this kit.

2. Widen the grooves around the outermost parts of the shell.

3. Trim two slivers off each side of the meeting point with a craft utility knife so that the base of the shell has a subtle V shape.

4. Roll out a rope of modeling chocolate. Flatten it and trim it so that its edges are straight. Cut it in a zig zag formation to make small triangles. The tool that’s used to cut here is a cutter embosser.