A device (20) for the application and manipulation of a substance on a substrate includes a handle (22) having a distal end (26) and a proximal end (24) and a working tip (42). The working tip (42) is comprised of a flexible, polymer material and has a proximal end (46) that includes structure defining at least one aperture (56) or channel (160). A cavity (40) is located at the distal end (26) of the handle (22) into which the proximal end (46) of the working tip (42) is inserted. The working tip (42) is secured in the cavity (40) by a flowable adhesive material (50) which at least partially penetrates the aperture (56) or channel (160) prior to curing. The cured adhesive material (50) adheres to at least a portion of an interior surface of the cavity (40) and forms solid pins in the apertures (56) or corresponding ridges (160) in the channels (160) of the proximal end (46) of the working tip (42), thereby securing the working tip (42) within the cavity (40). Methods for creating a device (20) in accordance with the present invention, either with or without a ferrule (28) are also disclosed. Preferably, the working tip (42) is made of silicone or a polymer material having surface release characteristics similar to silicone.