2 lbs. powdered sugar
1 c. Crisco
1 tsp. salt
2 tsp. clear vanilla or other clear flavoring
1/2 c. water

Mix all ingredients in large bowl of mixer. Beat about 5 minutes (important). Add more water, if necessary. Icing should not be too stiff to spread on cake, but stiff enough to stand in high peaks. Do not use a shortening of less quality than Crisco - your icing will not whip as nicely. You may use dark flavoring, but icing will not be snow white. Icing will keep indefinitely covered tightly in refrigerator.