Bronze, zinc, and even iron have historically been used to cast weathervanes. Today, figures are mainly cast from aluminum—a much lighter material. The process starts with a model carved of wood or plastic. The model is embedded in very fine sand, creating an impression. It is then removed and the cavity is filled with molten metal. The cooled casting is cleaned, finished, and painted. This method offers a much higher degree of detail than hammered metal vanes. With the exception of custom pieces, cast-aluminum weathervanes are commonly the least expensive and short lived.

Although the quality of American handmade pieces is greatly superior, the pressed weathervanes being imported from Taiwan and India are very affordable. They are manufactured by placing a thin sheet of copper in a machine, which uses molds in the shape of a figure's design to stamp out its parts. These parts, resembling Jell-O molds, are electrically soldered together to complete the figure. Be aware that their life span is limited due to poorly designed bearing mechanisms and posts. They are available either polished or with a pseudo-verdigris finish, are imported in huge quantities, and are available almost everywhere weathervanes are sold. There are many figures available, however custom designs are not possible.

Contemporary mold-crafted weathervanes are moderately priced and a great value. They are produced by making cast-iron molds from carved wooden figures. Copper sheets are carefully hand-hammered into these molds to produce the parts, which are trimmed and soldered together to form an accurate copy of the carving. The copper parts display the texture of the molds. Selection of figures is limited to the molds available. This method was used extensively during the late-19th century, and the antique figures are now considered fine examples of American folk art and are highly collectible, often commanding thousands of dollars at antique shops and sales.

Freehand sculpting without the use of molds or machines is a time-honored craft displaying unequaled attention to quality and detail. Almost anything can be immortalized in weathervane form using this technique. Most freehand artists create their works in basement studios, barns, and small shops. Armed with vision and quality materials, the parts are meticulously fashioned. Once complete, they are assembled and the vision takes form. Among the finest weathervanes created in the world today, the freehand process insures the quality and individuality of these pieces. Most of them increase in value with age and many become family heirlooms. They are sold through fine galleries, museums, and specialty catalogs. The Artist's signature should be engraved on the figure as a sign of authenticity. The weathervane should be supplied with a brass or stainless-steel post and include a brass or bronze compass point. Most artists will stand behind their work for life.