A method of forming a shaped article includes forming a mixture which includes a titania hydrate pulp having a loss on ignition of from about 10 to 45 wt. %, a seed material comprising a titanium oxide, at least a portion of the titanium oxide being in a rutile form, and optionally a dispersion aid. The method includes forming the mixture into a shaped article and firing the shaped article. A shaped article suitable for use as a catalyst carrier is at least 90% titanium oxide, greater than 80% of the titanium oxide being in the rutile phase. The article has a surface area of at least 2.5 m.sup.2/g and a mercury pore volume of greater than 0.15 cc/g.