Embodiments of the present invention teach a molding apparatus for producing a molded article from a molding material. The molding apparatus comprises an inner core ( 108) and an outer core (110) for defining a portion of a molding cavity ( 106) for defining the molded article; the inner core ( 108) including a compensator (120), the compensator (120) being configured to: retract to a retracted position responsive to the pressure of the molding material being injected into the molding cavity (106); and extend to an extended position responsive to the shrinkage during solidification of the molding material in the molding cavity.