You know what I always find I’m missing when I go to make a cake? A cake stand. And honestly, it makes a world of difference when it comes to presentation if you’ve got one. But last week when I made an Orange Buttermilk Cake, of course I didn’t. And I wasn’t about to go all over the city shopping for one while the cake was baking. So I ran down the block to the dollar store and picked up a few items to make a DIY version.

All you need is a large circular platter, a cup to use as the stand and a small plate to anchor and steady the stand at the bottom. You can use any type of cup and plates that you like. I actually found a cool pestle and mortar for $2 and ended up using it for the stand. Worked like a charm. It was wide enough that I didn’t need the bottom plate, but I recommend adding it for extra stabilization when you cut the cake.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• hot glue & glue gun
• large circular platter or plate
• cup
• small circular plate

HOW TO MAKE IT:

Squirt hot glue to the bottom of your cup and place it in the center of the bottom of the large plate, pressing firmly for a minute or so. Squirt hot glue around the rim of the top of the cup and place the top part of the small plate on it, being sure to center it, as well. Press firmly for a few minutes. Allow to dry for a couple hours.

Oh, and if you’re interested in the cake, you can find the recipe here at You Must Love Food.