A pattern is the full-size model of your part that the foundry uses to form the sand mould, along with any core boxes for internal shapes. You usually pay for it once, separately from the castings, and you should own it in writing.
Pattern cost and ownership cause many disputes because they are settled with a handshake. A short clause in the order prevents most of them.
What drives pattern cost
No two patterns cost the same. These factors decide the quote:
- Material: wood is cheapest and quickest, resin lasts longer, and metal lasts longest and holds size best.
- Size and complexity of the part, including the number and shape of cores.
- The number of cavities, if several parts are moulded at once.
- The moulding process, since shell moulding and automated lines need metal pattern plates.
- Gating and feeding design, which a good foundry includes in the pattern work.
- Expected life, measured in moulds before the pattern needs repair or replacement.
Matching the pattern to the order
A real figure only comes from a quote against your drawing and volumes. Choose the pattern material to match your volume, not the lowest pattern price. A cheap wooden pattern on a high-volume part wears quickly and lets dimensions drift.
Ask the foundry how many moulds it expects from the pattern before repair, and agree a dimensional check at set intervals. Worn patterns cause gradual changes that nobody notices until parts stop fitting. A short dimensional report every few batches catches the drift early, while it is still cheap to correct.
Who owns it
If you pay for a pattern, put ownership in writing. The general principles in tooling cost and ownership apply to patterns too. The order or a separate tooling agreement should cover these points:
- The buyer owns the pattern and core boxes once paid for.
- The pattern is marked with the buyer's name and part number.
- The foundry keeps it in good condition, stored dry, and reports wear.
- Who pays for repairs from normal wear, and who pays for replacement.
- The foundry releases the pattern within an agreed time if you move the work.
- The foundry may not use the pattern for anyone else.
Common problems
Some foundries offer to absorb pattern cost into the piece price. That can look attractive, but it often means the foundry claims ownership, and moving the work later becomes difficult. If you accept this, write down when ownership passes to you.
Patterns also disappear or degrade when a foundry changes premises or goes quiet. Ask for photos of your patterns once a year, and ask for them on every new order. Upfront payment terms for tooling are discussed in should I pay for tooling upfront.
Next step
We review pattern quotes and ownership terms before you pay, and check pattern condition during factory visits. To go through your casting project, book a free sourcing review.