Mix flour, soda, spices and salt. Beat shortening, molasses, sugar, water, egg and vanilla until well blended. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Will be soft. Divide into fourths. Pat each quarter into 3 cm thick round.
Wrap in plastic and refrigerate at least 3 hours or up to 1 week.
Roll on lightly floured surface to 0 cm thick, cut with gingermen cutters and bake at 180ºC or 10-12 minutes.
Cool slightly on cookie sheet, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Decorate with icing.