Abstract: A method of producing a mould of particulate material comprises admixing the particulate material with a controlled quantity of water, compacting the mixture to the required shape on a pattern or the like, removing the compacted mass from the pattern, and directing at at least the surface of the compacted mould to be contacted by molten metal a stream of coolant, whereby at least that surface is frozen to a depth sufficient to withstand the conditions imposed during the pouring of molten metal into the mould.