Corght,
Have you ever tried Dr. Martin dyes?
Brilliant color, fantatstic range. My wife and I both think it is a medium that would work really well with your style.
I like how you are cutting your pieces out now and repasting them. I might suggest you pick up an x-acto swivel blade. Your edges will be much smoother.
About what size are these originals?
oh and,
did you look into trying that coquille board I suggested?
You have a great art eye and I think the surface would look really cool with your work on it.
-Lemorris