The Sweet Sticks AWARD-WINNING Alcohol Free Activator is a revolutionary solution that turns our Paint Powders and Lustres into smooth, high-performing paint. It is designed for religious decorators, vegan bakers, conscious cakers, and stencil artists who want incredible results without alcohol.
This activator is a true game changer, using only vegan-friendly ingredients and containing absolutely zero alcohol.
It applies beautifully on most mediums and dries completely rub-free, leaving your finished product flawless. You can confidently pack your cookies and cakesicles knowing your lustre won’t smudge or transfer onto the packaging.
For stencils or large surface areas, we recommend our Paint & Dust with Zero Fuss method for a perfect, even coat. Simply paint a thin layer of activator onto your surface, then dust your lustre over the top to reveal an amazing metallic shine.
To create paint, mix equal parts activator and lustre (or adjust to reach your preferred consistency).
Because this product is water-based, mixing it directly with lustre to paint large areas on fondant or chocolate may not give ideal results. In that case, use the Paint & Dust method described above.
INSTRUCTIONS
Why Alcohol Free Activator Is Different
Alcohol Free Activator dries rub-free, something you cannot achieve with rose spirit. This means you can finally bag your cookies without worrying about smudging.
LARGE SURFACES
Paint & Dust Method (Recommended)
1. Apply Activator
- Dip your brush into the activator and paint a thin, even layer onto the surface.
- Less is best; avoid excessive back-and-forth brushing.
2. Dust the Lustre
- Using a dry Lustre Brush, apply lustre onto the wet area.
- Once covered, use a second dry brush to remove any excess.
Tools Needed:
- One brush for activator (wet)
- One brush for dusting (dry)
SMALL SURFACES
- Make Paint (Activator + Lustre)
- Add the amount of lustre you need into a palette.
- Add activator and mix to a paint-like consistency.
Ideal for raised fondant cookies, finer details, and chilled Swiss meringue buttercream.
STENCILLING WITH ALCOHOL FREE ACTIVATOR
1. Apply Activator
- Hold the stencil firmly.
- Brush a thin layer of activator over the stencil area.
- The surface will become tacky, helping the stencil stay in place.
2. Apply Lustre
- Use a dry brush to dab lustre over the stencil.
- Brush away any loose dust.
3. Reveal Your Design
- Gently lift the stencil and admire your clean, sharp artwork.
Works On: Ganache, fondant, buttercream
Does Not Work On: Swiss meringue buttercream (too oily for adhesion)
PAINT POWDERS + ALCOHOL FREE ACTIVATOR
- Place the required amount of Paint Powder into your palette.
- Add activator and mix to a smooth paint consistency.
- Great for fine details and raised fondant designs.
- Does not work on chocolate.
INGREDIENTS: Water, Gum Arabic, Citric Acid