Buttercream Frosting (Decorator’s Icing)

This looked like a good basic icing recipe. I don't remember where I got it from though.

• Ready In: 10 mins
• Yields: 1 1/4 cups

Ingredients

• 1  cup vegetable shortening
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1  tablespoon vanilla
• 2 (16 ounce) packages confectioners' sugar
• 1⁄2 cup water

Directions

1. In large mixing bowl, beat together shortening and salt. Gradually add vanilla, confectioner’s sugar and water. Beat constantly until fluffy. (Icing will be stiff.) Cover bowl with a damp cloth while using so it doesn’t dry out. Food coloring or color paste may be added to match wedding colors.
2. Use a decorator bag and tips to pipe desired shapes onto cookies. Use writing tips for initials and highlights. Use leaf tip for flowing wedding gowns etc.