Abstract: An apparatus and method for automatically forming ceramic shell molds as part of an investment casting process. The apparatus includes structure defining a plurality of processing stations which together define a process line through which set ups are conveyed and coated with cermic material. The first station includes a pickup arm assembly operative to transfer a set up from a transfer cart to a slurry tank where it is released. A transfer arm forming part of a second station engages the set up rotates it within the slurry tank for a predetermined time, after which, the slurry transfer arm transfers it to a spin-off tank and releases it. A stucco transfer arm assembly forming part of a third station engages the set up and rotates it to spin-off excess slurry solution after which the stucco transfer arm transfers it to a stucco tank and releases it.