how to make custome kick panels

how would i make a pair of custom kick panels for my 94 elantra do i pull the carpet back and make the mold with fiberglass or do i make the mold over the carpet since the kick panel will be ontop of the carpet once its done.... need help also i wanted to know if i were to do an engine swap what besides the engine would i have to change on the car in order for it to be right

Many years back I worked for a customs shop....Here is my two cents.

First determine all your clearances. Then create a template for the curvature...etc.

Make the actual kick panel or door panel from MDF build it out, and then contour the pod using Bondo. I know it sounds funny...but Bondo works wonders if your patient. After the Bondo fully cures you can tweak the contours and smooth out with a light sandpaper. Then you can cover with Vinyl, Leather, or low pile carpeting.

Obviously you have to be creative to see the full picture...but I recommend playing around...don't use your original panels...This way you can play with different looks and imaging to achieve the results that satisfy you the most.

Later,
Jason