Abstract: A method of manufacturing a tool which comprises preparation of a thermoplastic honeycomb core. The honeycomb core is suspended within a mold. The method also comprises pouring a thermosetting medium between the core and the mold to form the tool and removing the tool from the mold.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for making a hollow tool which is used to impart shape to an article. The method comprises: (a) building an outer box around a model of the article; (b) constructing an inner box disposed within and spaced apart from the outer box; (c) applying a fluid laminating agent to an inside surface of the inner box and to the model; (d) removing the inner box after the fluid laminating agent cures to form a solidified shell; (e) supporting the shell so that a space is formed between it and the model; (f) pouring a filling agent into the space, the filling agent bonding to the shell and forming a face that replicates the model; and (g) installing a support structure inside the shell to form the hollow tool, thereby imbuing the tool with the physical characteristics of lightness in weight and durability in shape retention after prolonged exposure to thermal cycling and the thermal characteristics of a uniform heat conductivity over all sections of the tool, regardless of its outside dimensions.