Dash pad alternatives? Pics?

[Trip59]

Hi folks, the dash pad in my '72 is beyond trashed, metal backer exposed in a couple of places. I've recovered these for myself and others before when the foam was at least existent, but this one is dead and gone.

I know I can get a junk yard and recover, or order a repop for decent prices, but I'm wondering if something else might be done. I've seen a couple just painted with open slots, has anyone done that or done something different?

Trip