An apparatus for forming a cutting insert may include a compression device having a sleeve with a bore. The sleeve may receive a substantially hollow can. Solid particulates may be positioned within the can, and a substrate material or other punch may also be positioned in the can. A forming device adjacent an end of the can in which the solid particulates are located may include at least one protrusion extending into the bore. The protrusion may be adapted to deform the can while also forming the plurality of solid particulates into a solid mass having one or more reliefs and/or lobes. A method may include pressing the solid particulates while within a can to form a solid mass having one or more reliefs or lobes. An HPHT process may be performed to bond the solid mass to a substrate material.