I think the first lay out looks fine. If I were making it , I would find a solid dard red that matches the darker red print and put a border about 2 inches wide on then add a wider border, about 4 inches,with the print you have there that you bought for the border. I love the pattern and I really like your blocks. It looks good to me. Who said they had to be perfect anyway? Not me.
sassy granny