Embodiments of the present invention provide apparatus for forming a component from a solidified fluid medium. The apparatus comprises a body defining a cavity into which the fluid medium may be introduced, the cavity optionally being shaped to define a shape of the component, and a carrier for supporting one or more elements to be embedded in the component. The carrier is arranged to be introduced into the cavity to support the one or more elements within the cavity while the fluid medium is introduced into the cavity. Embodiments of the invention are useful in a range of fabrication technologies including casting of metals and injection molding operations.