A technique to rapidly beat or whip as much air (volume) as possible into a mixture or one ingredient (usually heavy cream or egg whites). This is accomplished using a wire whisk or electric mixer. A whisk is made of several wires that are looped together into a teardrop shape and attached to a wooden or stainless steel handle. They come in many different sizes and shapes with the wires of various amounts, thicknesses and flexibilities. Whisks can be used to whip, blend, or stir ingredient(s).