You could do meandering and curl it in places as you do when you wind floss around your fingers. Do a small sampling of writing but I don't think it will show up well unless you go over it a few times. I would also stitch in the ditch to make the pieces pop. You say your stitching isn't the greatest but you could use your walking foot or a ruler if necessary. I think it will turn out pretty classy. Your choice of fabrics is great.