RE: Vacuum Formling Question
As a simple alternative to "vacuum forming" you can mount the plug on a down and then just stretch the heated plastic (in a frame) down over the plug. Vacuum forming is more useful when you have to make multiple identical versions of the same part.
Another alternative for a "one off" part is to carve a form out of foam, then fiberglass over it, and then use "dissolve" the foam away.