Have you thought about inking? Chose your square and use the permanent ink to put what you want on it. It doesn't take too much time and isn't costly

Thanks for the suggestions everyone, I went ahead and ordered the panel from Nan.

i think it's wonderful that your doing this for your father. he is a lucky man and you are a wonderful daughter. would love to see a picture when you are done.

I just do what is called redwork which is just simple hand embrodiery. Very simple and fun. Just print or write out what you want to say them do a backstitch or running stitch over it.
Love those panels.

Just a thought for another time. How about photo fabric and creating whatever you wanted on the computer. I've used the fabric and it worked great. Available at Joann's or Michael's.