Trying my hand at custom dash, pointers please

[Mrturner1]

Hey guys, I'm thinking about a custom dash that holds 2 or 3 autometer gauges. I'd like to mount my trans temp, oil pressure and water temp in the holes, and put the holes to the left of the steering wheel.

Here's the thing, I've never done anything like this before and I don't even know what materials to use. I have my dash to work with, and the gauges, and a willing spirit lol. What kind of material do you guys use? Fiberglass? Spray on or paint on? What can I use to make the cups for mounting the gauges? And what do I use for smoothing it out before paint?

I appreciate any help and pictures I can get

Matt