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If you're not intending to use an existing panel as a base for your design, then there are various approaches and materials that you can use to make your plug/pattern
Near the top-end of the cost scale, you can have a block of tooling board or foam CNC milled from a CAD file. 3D printing is also an option, assuming that the part isn't too large
However, I'm guessing that you're thinking of creating something using more basic techniques, so I'd highly recommend having a look at the EC tutorial video relating the airbox design
The approach used there, creating a skeleton from foam sheet, followed-up with highly sand-able closed cell foam block is a great way to create patterns from scratch. If you can accurately illustrate profile sections that can be transferred to the foam sheet when making the 'ribs' for your pattern then this will help maintain good dimensional stability. Alternatively, MDF can be a good start point when building up the shape of your pattern but foam is useful as it can be cut and shaped quite easily using basic hand tools
The resultant foam or MDF pattern can be given a light covering of glass fabric to add some strength, with body filler used towards the final stages to get everything smooth. A suitable primer and top coat of paint can then give you a surface ready to mould from.
Like anything, the more time and thought put into the design and build will show in the end product. In summary, there are (relatively) cheap materials available to allow you to build something from scratch
A few more details would be useful to asses just what you have in mind and how ambitious your plans are
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