The short answer
A first PVC/ABS sample typically takes 3–5 weeks: 1–2 weeks to sculpt and approve the master, 1–2 weeks for mold tooling, then 3–7 days for casting, painting and QC. Rush slots exist but cost more and risk rework.
Where the time actually goes
| Step | What it covers | Typical time |
|---|---|---|
| Sculpting & master | 3D sculpt, print the master, hand-finish details | 1–2 weeks |
| Mold tooling | Steel or aluminium mold per part; often the longest step | 1–2 weeks |
| Casting & painting | Injection/rotocast, primer, hand-paint, decals | 3–7 days |
| QC & approval | Seam, paint, pose check; photos for sign-off | 2–3 days |
MOQ: tooling dominates the math
Because a mold is the dominant fixed cost, economical production runs for PVC/ABS figures start around 300–500 pieces. Below that, the tooling cost is spread over too few units and the per-unit price stays high. Reorders reuse the same mold, so they are dramatically cheaper — you pay tooling once.
PVC vs. ABS: which to pick
- PVC — flexible, great for softer poses and larger runs; the default for mass-market figures.
- ABS — rigid, holds crisp detail and joints; preferred for articulated or mechanical-looking pieces.
Many designs mix both: ABS for the body shell, PVC for softer parts.
From sample to factory
We sculpt and tool in-house, then match you to vetted factories for production. The approved painted sample becomes the reference standard the factory builds against, with NDA protection throughout.
Frequently asked
How long does a PVC figure prototype take?
A first sample typically takes 3–5 weeks: sculpting/master 1–2 weeks, tooling 1–2 weeks, casting/painting/QC 3–7 days.
What is the MOQ for PVC/ABS figures?
Economical runs start around 300–500 pieces; the mold cost dominates small runs, and reorders reuse the same mold.
Why is tooling such a big part of the cost?
Each part needs a mold — fixed development cost paid once; production then only pays for material, labour and QC.
Can you prototype from an existing character design?
Yes. A 2D reference or 3D model is enough; we sculpt the master, build tooling and produce a painted sample for approval.