a method and apparatus for manufacturing or repairing a part . the method includes building a fixture for retaining the part using an additive manufacturing apparatus , wherein material is consolidated using an energy beam , the fixture built on a build plate retained in a set position within the additive manufacturing apparatus , mounting the part to the fixture and causing the additive manufacturing apparatus to consolidate material onto the part when the build plate , with the fixture and part attached thereto , is retained substantially in the set position .