A method of forming a pre-form ceramic matrix composite mold for a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) component including providing pieces of CMC remnant scrap material and randomly arranging the pieces of CMC remnant scrap material relative to one another. The method further includes debulking the pieces of CMC remnant scrap material into a rigidized shape, the rigidized shape having gaps between adjacent pieces of CMC remnant scrap material of about 10 microns and about 10 mm and a gap spacing between about 50 microns and about 50 mm, and forming the rigidized shape into a mold.