are you using fusible? maybe when you do your cut outs, you can just trim the fusible so you just get the edges. The middle trimmed out. Also you can trim out the black under the red if you are worried about too much bulk. It could get thicker where you have the tusks. If you are worried about the colors, I think I would make two of the applique. Fuse it together on an applique sheet, then audition them on the quilt to see which one you like better. You can use the 2nd app for a pillow or your 2nd quilt! Its gonna be great! love it...