Prototype
As the body shape model is made a duplicate body is also made. This stage is the prototype stage or "pattern". This pattern has all the working features of the model and will be used in the making of the steel tool. Again, someone will review the pattern and offer suggestions on design and function. This is also a good time to iron out any variations the model might have.

The prototype stage is very important as most issues need to be resolved at this stage, otherwise later revisions can be more costly. It is important to note that every part of this model is hand made. These models can cost up to and beyond $50,000 depending on the complexity of the model.

Once the review is complete, a booklet is put together with the comments and extra reference material and then shipped back to China. Sometimes textures and colors can be specified at this stage, if the selection has not been made previously. Textures are picked from a "texture board" and these textures will be etched into the tool. Careful selection needs to be made, as any error in this phase will require extensive repair.

The prototype is then pantographed, which is a process that reduces the part into the appropriate scale. The model enters the tooling stage where steel for the tool is actually cut. During this stage the prototype is actually destroyed by the process required to make the tool.