and sculpture, the molding is often carved in marble or other stones. In historic architecture, and some expensive modern buildings, it may be formed in place with plaster.

A "plain" molding has right-angled upper and lower edges. A "sprung" molding has upper and lower edges that bevel towards its rear, allowing mounting between two non-parallel planes (such as a wall and a ceiling), with an open space behind. Moldings may be decorated