Because of their size these layers must be baked one at a time, a process which may actually take an entire day. Once the layers are surprisingly heavy, half-inch dowel rods must be frosted. Since large wedding cakes are surprisingly heavy, half-inch dowel rods must be measured, cut and carefully driven into the bottom layers. These wooden posts provide hidden support for the weighty upper layers. When all the layers are set in place, flowers, garlands and leaves of frosting are added, these delicate touches individualize the weding cake and transform it from merely a cake into a culinary work of art.