Portal Cross Stitch [Practice]

So after a few weeks of work, I finally completed my first foray into cross stitching! It's quite a relaxing hobby, I must say... Anyway, I'm planning to do some pony patterns soon, and I bought a huge DMC color guide for 40% off, so I may even try making my own patterns!

This was inspired entirely by the awesome AlaskanAsh. (Go check out her gallery!)
I saw her version of this (which is much prettier and framed), and it looked like a good piece to practice with. I used plastic canvas for the durability and anti-warping, but that makes you fill in the whole background yourself, though half stitches with bigger thread worked well, so it wasn't too bad. I may try regular aida fabric next time so I can crank them out faster.

Original:

Pattern: spritestitch.com/forum/viewtop…