Rachel Boothe posted:Julia M. Usher posted:Well, if it's not a consistency issue (icing that's too thick pushed out of a very small hole will often curl), then you may have misformed your cones. If the paper is not pulled completely taut at the tip (or if you have any flopping paper or small tears in the tip), this can also lead to curling or irregular piping. Lastly, be sure your icing is making contact with the cookie surface before you start to pipe (apply pressure to the cone); if the icing has nothing to grab onto, it can also sometimes curl or go in directions other than you want.
I just watched the piping cone video by Julia Usher on you tube after reading this thread and I am so going to try them. I was about to drop some money tomorrow on several small tips, but before I do that, I am going to try the cones. Tips get expensive and parchment paper is much cheaper, especially considering that many cones can be made from a roll of it.
Glad to hear this! I hate throwing away plastic too - another great reason to try cones! 