A method for manufacturing a ply is disclosed. The method includes printing the ply, the ply including a near net shape and a ceramic matrix composite nonwoven material. A ply is disclosed wherein the near net shape is a predetermined layer of an article. A method for manufacturing an article is also disclosed. The method includes printing a first ply and a second ply. The first ply includes a first near net shape and a first ceramic matrix composite nonwoven material, and the second ply includes a second near net shape and a second ceramic matrix composite nonwoven material. The method further includes applying the second ply to the first ply, and consolidating the first ply and the second ply.