We like these features because they give a worn, authentic vintage look. Our favorite way to apply molded pieces is to remove them from the mold while they are still wet and attach them to the surface with a suitable adhesive so they conform well, especially if you want to attach the ornament to a convex or curved surface. On vertical surfaces, you can also use tape to keep the decoration in place.
Casting Resins/Epoxies: Good casting resins are available. These have completely different properties than paper clay. They don't shrink or warp, and the castings are smoother. Depending on the project, these features can be useful. If they need to be adapted to a curved surface, it can be done if they are removed from the mold before the piece is fully hardened.
Note! However, if you have problems with the material sticking (which is more common with clay than with resin), lightly treating the mold with, for example, potato flour or cornmeal will help the pieces to come off.
