The shortening (crisco for example) serves to help condition the gumpaste. Use just a tiny bit (finger tip amount perhaps), put it on to your hands and then knead it into the gumpaste. Nicholos Lodge recommends it as a conditioner. I’ve never used straight gumpaste for flowers. Instead I use store bought Satin Ice fondant and to that I add a little CMC and that becomes my gum paste. Sorry if I’m adding too much info and confusing you. If you are looking for a gumpaste recipe that is great for flowers check out Nicholos Lodge’s gumpaste recipe. I think it is available on Craftsy or perhaps even google. Whatever you decide to use, you will do great! Looking forward to seeing your creation :)
The Garden Baker
