That sounds really cool! Wondering if you have access to different canvas than I've seen? There are only 5-6 squares per inch in the canvas I have, which would be very limiting in regard to pattern size. I think if you started stitching in the middle, glue might be unnecessary. You could use some of the tiny binder clips to hold it together while you work. What about using yarn or even thin ribbon, or cording instead of cross-stitch thread? The thickness of it might show up better.

OT alert: I had bought these sheets of plastic canvas thinking they would be good to teach a friend's daughter how to cross-stitch but we discovered it's even harder because the holes are so big that the needle just falls through too easily and it's hard to get started without tying a knot which is against "my rules for cross-stitch." No knots allowed.