Ceramic matrix composite articles having different localized properties and methods for forming same

A method for use in forming a ceramic matrix composite article, the method comprising:

• laying up a first plurality of plies comprising ceramic fibers in a ceramic matrix, the first plurality of plies defining a first extent;
• laying up at least one second ply defining a second extent on and/or in the layup of the first plurality of plies, the second extent being less than the first extent, wherein a stack of the first plurality of plies and the at least one second ply within the second extent defines a localized portion of the ceramic matrix composite article, and a stack of the first plurality of plies within the first extent but not within the second extent defines an exterior portion of the ceramic matrix composite article, and
• machining at least one aperture into the localized portion of the ceramic matrix composite article,
• wherein the first plurality of plies comprises a first property, the at least one second ply comprises at least one second property, and the first property is different from the at least one second property such that stresses within the localized portion are lower than stresses within the exterior portion,
• wherein the machined at least one aperture extends through the at least one second ply, the first and second properties are a stress/strain mechanical property, and the stress/strain mechanical property of the second ply surrounding the at least one aperture is greater than the stress/strain mechanical property of the first ply surrounding the at least one aperture.