"Never tried it on a table...too messy!Towards the end when it seems that it will not take in anymore of the PS, I microwave the blob for 30 seconds, and knead, till it is all in.By the way, I flavor my MMF only if it is a cake for an event...I mostly do practice or just-for-fun stuff, so I do not bother then.Also, the Crisco right in the bowl is a tip I read here, posted by jeking." . . . .