Hello fellow craftsmen, Here is what I have been using to make patterns for years. The product is wallpaper liner that you can pick buy from most wallpaper outlets. Sold in single and double rolls, and is not that expensive for the amount you get. Wallpaper liner primary use is for just that, lining walls that have imperfections before applying the actual wallpaper.
To get started unroll what you will need and then press with a dry iron (no steam needed) Then you can draw and make notes on the liner. You can cut, punch etc. fairly precise details, and it keeps its shape. This material is thin yet very durable, and can be used over and over again. When storing your patterns if they are folded, or what ever just iron them again when you want to use them.
I am sure no one will be disappointed it they give this a try.