To check the desired desired consistency, run a knife 1-inch below the icing surface and pull it through the icing. The icing should come together and smooth out within 7-10 seconds for the perfect consistency for piping and flooding. If it takes longer than 10 seconds, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.
While in use, keep the icing covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out or place it in a sealed container.