Low cost water based binder system was developed for shaping ferrous, nonferrous metals and/or ceramics parts by injection molding processes. The process comprises the steps of preparing a mixture containing a gel-forming powder comprising carrageenan, metal and/or ceramic powders, de-ionized water and a gel-strengthening additive. The mixture is injection molded to produce self-supporting articles. The present invention provides a direct compounding and molding of metal and/or ceramic feedstock. Additionally, a coating composition comprising gelatine, water and a metal and/or ceramic powder is used to form coating layers on selected materials.