I’m trying to get a proof/prototype of a physical good I’m working on created. It is made out of the same type of material a theraband resistance band uses. A unique constraint of this good is that it will also have right corners (imagine a square).

My goal is to get the proof, do a photoshoot with it, and see if it will drive demand.

How should i get this proof/prototype made? My first instinct was going on alibaba and requesting a sample there. But as the product is novel + not yet trademarked, I don’t want to run the risk of having it ripped off. If this is the right route, what sort of legal protections should I seek out before.

If not, what would be a better route? All thoughts welcome :)