Abstract: A decorative article is made by a process in which a controlled-flatness substrate having an effective edge in a closed pattern on its surface receives a fluent plastic composition which is cast into an area defined by the edge. The fluent plastic flows to the effective edge and is then cured to form a clear plastic cap. During casting and curing the substrate is held flat and horizontal by reason of its being releasably adhered to a flat, smooth-surfaced, stiff release liner. The resulting decorative article is free of optical distortions and may be used as a covering preferrably for elongated automotive components such as the external vertical pillars between the passenger compartments of automobiles.

Abstract: A machine for holding a release sheet on which emblem substrates are mounted while plastic is cast on the substrates and for holding the release sheet and substrates and curing the plastic includes a radiation source which is movable into a position above the release sheet. The platen holding the release sheet has a first cavity which is partially evacuated and which communicates with the upper surface of the platen through a plurality of openings. A second cavity in the platen receives temperature stabilizing fluid. Control circuitry is provided permitting alteration of the operation sequence of the machine.