A mold assembly system includes a mold assembly that defines an infiltration chamber used for forming an infiltrated metal-matrix composite (MMC) tool. Reinforcement materials are deposited within the infiltration chamber, and a binder material is used to infiltrate the reinforcement materials. At least one preformed mesh is positioned within the infiltration chamber and embedded within the reinforcement materials. The at least one preformed mesh includes a porous body and provides skeletal reinforcement to the infiltrated MMC tool following infiltration.