our group did a mystery project last year. when I finished it I was unhappy-not enough contrast,- it seemed to just blend together! When we met & displayed them(12)-- almost everyone liked my"dreamy, waterclor quilt" the BEST. When I stepped back--I COULD SEE WHAT THEY WERE SEEING! Ithink the same will happen for you! Do the applique as suggested, add some dark, premade skinny bias tape, swirled to give some movement!!-IF you think it needs more at the end!