Abstract: The invention describes making core structures for tooling panels air permeable and resistant to higher temperatures. Core structures may be a non-woven made from fibers that may be treated with an adhesion promoter. The fiber is then treated with an outer-coating. Proper choice of outer coating allows the tooling panel to function at higher temperatures. The non-woven core may be constructed in various dimensions. Air permeability allows tooling panels to show superior response to changing temperatures. The non-woven may be bonded with another to form a larger tooling panel. The outer surface of the tooling panel may be coated with a material such as rigid foam that can be machined to a pattern placed in contact with material in manufacture a part. The permeable core structure can be made from permeated plastic, wood, metal, ceramic and the like.