I understand you completely making one from scratch and I appreciate your sense of originality. But I have a very tough time explaining really what I'm looking for so I just keep referring to the example signature. I apologize for that, at least I can help you with the coloring.
Look at the background color of my avatar. Resembles wood-like material, which is very classic Japanese style.
Edit: Take a look these two pictures, maybe they will help. It's this kind of style I'm searching for.