Stretch and hold clean stockings above the cake and dust sugar or cocoa over it to create a lattice pattern with straight lines that are nearly impossible to create by hand.
Stockings with larger holes will have a simpler pattern, while smaller holes will create a finer and more textured design. Using multiple different powders adds a pop of color.
Try sprinkling both cocoa and matcha powder for a brown and green half-and-half design, or try either of these colorful powders with white powdered sugar for a lovely contrast.