Well, I decided to improve my earlier piece (which was moved to scraps). I knew adding a BG would help, but the results were far more positive than I originally anticipated.

Also tried shading in this program. It is less than pleasant. I think I know the approach to take to it on this now at least.

If you want a more detailed description you can find it on the original in scraps.

So please comment if you like, or even if you don't. I'm fine with any critique, as long as it's not done in a rude way.