MJC4,
I didn't explain myself very well. I meant like using a clear casting epoxy that would actually engulf the item to be used. Say for instance a fishing fly could be imbedded to the top of a stick, but would not be felt, or damaged because it was inside of the epoxy casting but would be clearly visible. I wonder if you can carve, or drill a cavity, place the desired object into the cavity, and fill with the casting epoxy, if that is all that is needed to secure said item to the stick?
I too use a two part epoxy to attach toppers that is used in gun smithing called "acraglas". It it used to bed rifle barrels into their stocks and to repair cracks, etc.
Nice topper, I admire your work!