A method for creating a particle from a powder according to one embodiment includes applying a droplet of a liquid to a bed of powder, wherein a particle is formed at about a point of contact of the droplet with the bed. A composite particle according to one embodiment includes a liquid-absorbing material and a liquid-induced binding agent substantially homogeneously dispersed in the particle. A composite particle according to yet another embodiment includes a liquid-absorbing material and a byproduct of a liquid-induced gas forming agent substantially homogeneously dispersed in the particle. A composite particle suitable for use as an animal litter according to an embodiment includes a liquid-absorbing material, where the particle has at least one of the following properties: hollow, cupped, and generally bagel shaped. A composite particle in yet another embodiment includes a material formed in a shape substantially defined by a droplet of liquid.