About Me

Hello! I’m Mike, the guy behind the cookies of Semi Sweet Designs.

I’ve always considered myself a creative person. I’m constantly imagining ways to turn topics I think people will love into cookie form. This blog journals the many cookie designs I create, as well as tips and tricks I learn along the way.

This hobby of cookie making developed into a passion practically overnight. I entered the world of cookie decorating in November 2011. I was looking for a gift idea for a friend that had everything. He was a lover of cookies, so I Googled a few decorated cookie tutorials online and gave it a shot. It turned out to be a lot of fun, therapeutic even. So this would-be, one time, kitchen craft became a non-stop, full time career.

Over the course of a few years, I expanded the Semi Sweet Designs brand into custom-made cookie cutters and stencils. All this cookie magic happens out my home in Tampa, Florida.

More about me and some FAQs

Q: When did you start blogging/making cookies?

November 2011.

Q: Do you sell your cookies or take custom orders?

No, I do not sell any of the cookies I post on this blog. I tried my hand at customer orders for cookies but realized it wasn’t for me. Instead I come up with my own ideas on a whim, blog about the experience, and hand those cookies to the next person I see– neighbors, family, soccer teammates, etc.– whether they like it or not.

Q: What sugar cookie recipe do you use?

I have a few roll-out recipes I’ve posted on my blog that you can find here. But, my go-to basic sugar cookie recipe can be found here.

Q: What royal icing recipe do you use?

You can find my royal icing recipe here.

Q: May I recreate your cookies and sell them in my own shop?

Yes, of course! I make tutorials so other cookie decorators can buy my cookie cutters and recreate the cookies for resale.

Q: May I use your photos on my website?

Using my photos to promote your business is not allowed. You may recreate my cookie designs. However, you must make your own cookies, take your own photos of those cookies, and use only your photos for your own promotions. Unfortunately, there were too many instances of cookie shops using my photos and claim them as their own work.

Q: What kind of template material do you use in your decorating videos?

I use a material called quilting template plastic. You can buy it online or find it in any craft store in the sewing section. It’s easy draw or trace on with a Sharpie, and easy to cut with regular scissors.

Q: Is there a way for me to know when you’ve posted something new?

You bet! You can “like” my page on Facebook or follow me on Twitter, Instagram, Google+, or Pinterest. Also, you can subscribe to my blog and have post updates delivered to your email.

Q: I have a question. Can I email you directly?

Of course. You can contact me here or email any questions and comments to mike@semisweetdesigns.com.