This paper explores a novel approach to low-cost tooling by integrating standard inserts with 3D-printed tooling components. The demand for agile, low-cost tooling solutions has intensified across industries that rely on frequent product updates, customization, or low-volume production. Traditional tooling methods are often expensive and time-consuming, especially for short production runs, and additive manufacturing (AM) has emerged as a promising alternative due to its flexibility and rapid prototyping capabilities. However, challenges persist with AM-based tooling, such as surface quality, material limitations, and the high cost of metal AM. This study addresses these challenges by introducing a hybrid tooling concept that combines cost-effective polymer-based 3D-printed inserts with standard metal inserts. The 3D-printed inserts, fabricated using stereolithography (SLA), offer good surface finish and intricate detail capabilities, which allow for complex part geometries without requiring extensive post-processing. Integrating standard inserts into a 3D-printed tooling framework significantly improves the tool’s mechanical strength and thermal stability, especially in regions subject to high wear or pressure during injection molding. This is particularly beneficial for complex parts with intricate internal features that require additional inserts for their creation. Standard inserts also simplify mold design by reducing the complexity of geometries needed in the printed components, as they effectively incorporate key features like threads, alignment guides, and high-stress areas, which printed materials alone might not support as robustly. This approach minimizes the use of custom parts, thereby lowering costs and streamlining the production process while also extending the tool's operational lifespan. Additionally, the modular design of this tooling system enables easy replacement of individual inserts rather than the entire tool, making it ideal for iterative design and prototyping processes. This paper also discusses the design considerations for achieving optimal fit and alignment between the 3D-printed and standard insert components. A small clearance is introduced between certain components to ensure smooth detachment, particularly for complex geometries where alignment during the injection molding process is critical. Additionally, guiding features are incorporated to improve alignment between the two sides of the mold, enhancing mold accuracy and ensuring repeatability in production. A further advantage of the SLA process is that it allows for the direct integration of external threads on 3D-printed inserts, enhancing design flexibility and reducing the need for secondary operations. Through this hybrid tooling approach, the research aims to provide an efficient and flexible tooling solution that leverages the advantages of 3D printing without compromising the structural benefits of traditional inserts. By combining these techniques, the proposed solution presents a promising alternative for rapid and cost-effective tooling that can adapt to the evolving needs of modern manufacturing environments. This work also contributes to the field by offering a pathway toward achieving high-quality, low-cost tooling with enhanced durability and functionality, paving the way for further innovations in hybrid manufacturing applications