The Thistle Place Barn Quilt – A Family Story Painted in Purple

Some symbols are chosen. Others choose us.

In 1838, John J. Lyke bought a piece of land covered in tall purple thistles after his blind father-in-law declared, “Any land that can grow thistles this big is good land.” That land became the Lyke Homestead in Steuben County, NY—a place where generations lived, farmed, and passed down a legacy of strength.

The Thistle Place Barn Quilt was created to honor that story. It’s more than a design—it’s our family crest. Each room in the original farmhouse, and in my Utah home, has a carved or painted thistle—a quiet reminder that no matter where we are, we’re always connected by these root  The thistle stands for all of us: strong, beautiful, and enduring.

Painted in our vintage inspired Prairie Paints, in colors of purples, pinks and greens.  Available in four sizes, this barn quilt is also offered as a DIY kit and full-color pattern. 

Let it bloom on your walls with a story worth remembering.

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The Thistle Place Barn Quilt – A Family Story Painted in Purple

Welcoming May with our Bloom and Barn Sale

We’re welcoming May with our exclusive Bloom & Barn Sale — a special thank-you just for our email subscribers! This weekend only, enjoy 20% off everything in our shop with code BLOOM20.

Whether you're stitching up a spring garden, painting a new barn quilt, or stocking up on Prairie Paints, now is the perfect time to gather the pieces for your next beautiful make.

🌸 Use code BLOOM20 at checkout

🌿 Sale runs Friday through Sunday

🧺 Includes all kits, patterns, paints & finished pieces

Celebrate, dream, and create something new this weekend. Thank you for being part of the Tweetle Dee family!

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Welcoming May with our Bloom and Barn Sale

My Soul is Made of Wildflowers

There’s something about wildflowers—the way they bloom where they please, how they reach for the sun without apology—that feels like a mirror to the soul. This newest embroidery design, My Soul is Made of Wildflowers, is a love note to those untamed, colorful pieces of ourselves that refuse to be anything but true.

Stitched on a field of denim blue and framed by a tangle of blooms—daisies, black-eyed Susans, cosmos, and sprigs of forget-me-not—this piece is full of joy, softness, and strength. The phrase itself came to me in the middle of a summer meadow, and every stitch since has felt like a whisper of freedom.

You can find the My Soul is Made of Wildflowers pattern as a downloadable PDF in our Tweetle Dee Online Shop, along with full embroidery kits that include everything you need to create your own stitched garden. Whether you’re just beginning your stitching journey or have embroidered for years, this piece is one to savor slowly, like a sunny afternoon in the tall grass.

Let your needle wander, and let the wildflowers grow. 

🌼 A Mini Field Guide to Wildflowers

Five Wildflowers That Inspired This Design

1. Black-Eyed Susan – Bold and bright, a symbol of encouragement.

2. Cosmos – Joyful and delicate, they bloom with childlike wonder.

3. Queen Anne’s Lace – Lacy and wild, said to be nature’s snowflake.

4. Purple Clover – Humble and sweet, the flower of good fortune.

5. Forget-Me-Not – Tiny but mighty, a bloom for memory and love.

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My Soul is Made of Wildflowers

Grandma's Pineapple Coconut Carrot Cake

Once upon an Easter, and every one since, our table has been graced with the most beloved cake of all—Grandma’s Pineapple Carrot Cake with its golden Brown Butter Glaze and a crown of Orange Cream Cheese Frosting. I’ve tasted many carrot cakes over the years, but none have ever measured up to hers. It wasn’t the fanciest cake, nor the most polished, but it was everything a true cake should be—moist, rich, and stitched together with love. Each layer, from the tender crumb to the sweet glaze, could stand on its own, but together they made something almost magical. If there’s a secret to its charm, I believe it’s in the warm, nutty swirl of brown butter that makes every bite unforgettable.

Grandma's Pineapple Coconut Carrot Cake

2 Cups Flour

2 Teas Baking Soda

2 Teas Saigon Cinnamon

1/2 Teas Salt

Sift dry ingredients together and set aside....

3 Eggs

3/4 Cup Vegetable Oil

3/4 Cup Buttermilk

2 Cups Sugar

2 Teas Vanilla

Mix well.  Add the dry ingredients and mix well.

2 Cups Drained, Crushed Pineapple

2 Cups Shredded Carrot

1 Cup Flaked Coconut

1/2 Cup Chopped Nuts

Add pineapple, coconut, carrot and nuts and mix well.  

Pour into a greased 9" x 13" glass cake pan and bake at 350 degrees for approximately one hour or until a toothpick comes out clean.  

Just before your cake is done, make the glaze....

Brown Butter Glaze

1 Cup Sugar

1/2 Teas Baking Soda

1/2 Cup Buttermilk

1/4 Pound Butter

1 Tablespoon Corn Syrup

1 Teaspoon Vanilla

Place butter in a medium hot pan and melt.  Let it get a little browned in the pan.  Add the buttermilk, sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla. Boil for 1 minute.  Add the baking soda and whisk.

Remove cake from oven and while hot, pour glaze over cake.  Cool completely. 

 Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

1/4 Pound Butter

1 8 oz. Package Cream Cheese

2 Teaspoons Vanilla

2 Cups Powdered Sugar
2 Tablespoons Orange Juice

Combine butter and cream cheese.  Add vanilla, orange juice, powdered sugar and beat until thick and smooth. 
 Frost over cooled cake.

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Grandma's Pineapple Coconut Carrot Cake

New Cross Stitch Kit! Say Hello to the Forget Me Not

We’re so excited to share the newest bloom in our Wilde Bloem Collection—the Forget Me Not Cross Stitch Kit and Pattern. Inspired by the delicate blue flower and the symbolism it carries, this design is a heartfelt tribute to remembrance, enduring love, and loyalty.

Each stitch in this charming pattern echoes the quiet strength of the tiny Myosotis bloom, often found growing wild in fields and along paths—small, yet impossible to forget. The motif is drawn directly from our Wilde Bloem Barn Quilt and translated into a beautiful cross stitch that feels both traditional and fresh. With its rich blues, golden centers, and layered greens, the palette pops brilliantly against the black background, creating a piece that is both bold and tender.

Our Wilde Bloem Forget Me Not Cross Stitch Kit includes everything you need to bring this design to life—high-quality aida cloth, embroidery floss, needle, scissors, hoop, and a printed full-color pattern. It’s also available as a PDF pattern download if you prefer to use your own supplies.

Whether you’re stitching this piece in honor of someone you love or simply as a way to slow down and savor the art of handwork, this design is meant to be a keepsake. Frame it, gift it, or hang it alongside your other barn quilt-inspired stitches—it’s a little bloom with a big message.

Available now in our shop. We hope it brings beauty and meaning to your hands and home.

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New Cross Stitch Kit! Say Hello to the Forget Me Not

The Bellatrix Star Barn Quilt: Embracing the Light and the Dark

At the heart of the stars lies a story—and the Bellatrix Star is one that speaks to the mystery, strength, and duality within every woman.

Bellatrix, meaning Dark Queen in Gaelic, is a name steeped in ancient wisdom and fierce beauty. This newest addition to our barn quilt collection was created as a tribute to the sacred balance we carry inside us—the light that leads and the shadows that ground. It’s a reminder that our full selves are worthy of celebration. The bright moments, the quiet struggles, the radiant hope, the fierce resilience—they all belong.

Bellatrix Star Barn Quilt

Painted in bold, contrasting tones from our Prairie Paint Collection, the Bellatrix Star shines with striking geometric strength. Deep blacks, soft whites, and weathered textures blend together to form a star that is both grounding and ethereal. It is framed in rich cedar and sealed with our signature Prairie Paint Finishing Wax to preserve its beauty for years to come.

Whether hung above a hearth, in a sacred creative space, or on the side of a beloved barn, the Bellatrix Star is more than just a design—it is a statement of power, mystery, and the wholeness of womanhood.

In a world that often asks us to choose one side of ourselves, Bellatrix invites us to be all of who we are.

You can find the Bellatrix Star Barn Quilt as a pattern, DIY kit, or a fully painted barn quilt, ready to hang and honor your space. Each piece is made with intention, care, and the soul of the stars.  You can place your orders at our shop.

Step into your power. Embrace your light. Honor your dark.

Bellatrix. The Dark Queen. She is within you.

✨

Celebrate, Dream, Create— Tweetle Dee

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The Bellatrix Star Barn Quilt: Embracing the Light and the Dark

Wilde Bloem Indian Paint Brush Cross-Stitch Pattern and Kit

We are thrilled to introduce the latest addition to our Wilde Bloem Quilt Collection—the Wilde Bloem Indian Paint Brush Cross-Stitch Pattern and Kit! Inspired by the vibrant beauty of the Indian Paint Brush wildflower and the timeless charm of quilt motifs, this cross-stitch design brings a touch of folk art into your stitching projects.

A Stitching Tribute to Nature and Heritage

This striking pattern captures the essence of the Wilde Bloem Quilt Collection, blending geometric quilt-inspired shapes with bold, prairie-inspired hues. The Indian Paint Brush flower, known for its fiery red and golden tones, symbolizes strength, resilience, and natural beauty—perfectly reflected in this design. Whether you're a seasoned stitcher or a beginner, this pattern offers an enjoyable and rewarding project that celebrates tradition and creativity.

Available as a Pattern or Full Kit

Choose from:

• The Pattern: Available as a PDF download or a full-color printed pattern, so you can start stitching right away.

• The Kit: Includes everything you need to create your own Indian Paint Brush cross-stitch, featuring:

  • High-quality black Aida cloth for a bold and striking backdrop

  • Embroidery floss in rich, earthy tones inspired by prairie wildflowers

  • A needle, scissors, and a wooden frame for finishing

  • A full-color pattern with clear stitching instructions

A Perfect Addition to Your Home or Gift Collection

The Wilde Bloem Indian Paint Brush cross-stitch design is perfect for framing and displaying in your home, adding a rustic, handcrafted charm to any space. It also makes a meaningful and heartfelt gift for fellow makers, nature lovers, and quilting enthusiasts.

Shop Now!

This new design is now available in our shop as both a pattern and a full kit! Head over to our website to grab yours and add a touch of prairie-inspired beauty to your cross-stitch collection.

Happy Stitching!

Celebrate, Dream, Create ✨

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Wilde Bloem Indian Paint Brush Cross-Stitch Pattern and Kit

The Voyager Compass Barn Quilt: A Symbol of Life’s Journey

Every path we take in life is guided by choices—some small, some monumental—all leading us toward growth, discovery, and purpose. Our newest barn quilt, the Voyager Compass, is a tribute to these journeys, honoring the simple yet profound directions we choose to follow.

Inspired by traditional compass rose designs, the Voyager Compass Barn Quilt features bold, geometric points that radiate from a central circle—a reflection of the steady center we each carry within us. Whether displayed as a focal piece in your home or a guiding symbol on an exterior barn or porch, this design invites you to embrace both adventure and homecoming.

Voyager Compass Barn Quilt

Hand-painted with care using our Prairie Paints, the Voyager Compass is available in a timeless palette that pairs beautifully with rustic, modern, or farmhouse decor. Each piece is framed in cedar and sealed with our Prairie Paint Finishing Wax, ensuring its beauty lasts through the years.

Let this barn quilt be a reminder of the paths you've traveled, the ones you’re exploring now, and the endless possibilities ahead. Where will your next journey take you?

Shop the Voyager Compass Barn Quilt now and bring this symbol of adventure and direction into your space!

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The Voyager Compass Barn Quilt: A Symbol of Life’s Journey

New Barn Quilt Kits!

We are beyond excited to introduce our brand-new Barn Quilt Kits—everything you need to create your own stunning barn quilt at home! Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting your creative journey, these kits make it easy to craft a beautiful heirloom piece infused with rustic charm.

Each Barn Quilt Kit includes:

• A Barn Quilt Pattern designed for easy transfer and painting.

• Our How to Paint a Barn Quilt Guide, packed with step-by-step instructions and tips.

• A selection of our Prairie Paints, rich in color and made for lasting beauty.

• Finishing Wax to seal and protect your masterpiece.

• Transfer Pens to effortlessly transfer your design onto the board.

• A Farmhouse Planked Barn Quilt Board, prepped and ready for painting.

These kits are designed to bring the joy of barn quilt painting to your home, allowing you to create a piece of art that reflects your love for folk traditions and handcrafted beauty. Whether you're making one for yourself or as a heartfelt gift, each brushstroke will carry a story of creativity and tradition.

Get your hands on one of our new Barn Quilt Kits today and start painting your own piece of American heritage!

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New Barn Quilt Kits!

A Taste of Nostalgia: Old-Time Molasses Cookies

There’s something special about the deep, rich flavor of molasses in a soft, spiced cookie. These Old-Time Molasses Cookies are a beloved classic, bringing warmth and comfort with every bite. Whether you're baking for a cozy evening at home, a family gathering, or just craving a nostalgic treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

✔ Soft & Chewy Texture – Perfectly balanced between firm and tender.

✔ Warm Spices – Infused with cinnamon, ginger, and cloves for that cozy flavor.

✔ Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples, just like grandma used to make.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ½ tsp salt
• 1/2 cup raw sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare – Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients – In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and molasses.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
4. Mix & Chill – Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until combined. Chill dough for 30 minutes.
5. Shape & Coat – Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll in granulated sugar. Place on baking sheet, 2 inches apart.
6. Bake – Bake for 8-10 minutes until cookies are set but still soft. Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Serving & Storing

Enjoy these cookies warm with a cup of tea or milk! Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

A Sweet Tradition

Molasses cookies have been a cherished recipe in many homes, passed down through generations. Growing up, these were the one cookie I couldn’t resist sneaking—their rich, spiced aroma was simply too tempting! This recipe is also similar to one from Howard, NY, shared by Lilah Burdin, a dear friend of our family. Her version was a local favorite, bringing warmth to every gathering.

Do you have a special memory of baking molasses cookies? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments!

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A Taste of Nostalgia: Old-Time Molasses Cookies

Introducing the Tulip Walk Barn Quilt Pattern 🌷🎨

Spring is just around the corner, and we’re celebrating with the release of our 

Tulip Walk Barn Quilt Pattern! Inspired by the cheerful blooms of a springtime garden, this design features a mix of warm yellows, bold reds, and fresh greens, arranged in a geometric tulip pattern that brings the beauty of nature to your home.

The Tulip Walk Barn Quilt Pattern is now available in both PDF and full-color printed versions, making it easy to start your next project in the way that works best for you. As with all our patterns, it includes:

✅ How to Paint a Barn Quilt Instructions – Our step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process, from prepping your board to adding those final touches.
✅ Grid Pattern of the Design – A precise layout to help you recreate the Tulip Walk design with confidence.
✅ Prairie Paints Color Guide – Our carefully curated palette ensures your barn quilt captures the charm and vibrancy of traditional folk art.

This bright and joyful design is perfect for welcoming the season—whether displayed on your porch, in your home, or as a special gift for someone who loves the magic of spring. 🌿✨

Grab your Tulip Walk Barn Quilt Pattern today and let’s get painting!

Shop Now

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Introducing the Tulip Walk Barn Quilt Pattern 🌷🎨

Celestial Skies Hex – A Tribute to the Moon and Stars

There’s something truly magical about looking up at the night sky—the way the moon waxes and wanes, the stars shimmer, and the sun keeps time with its golden glow. Our newest barn quilt design, Celestial Skies Hex, captures this cosmic wonder in a beautifully crafted piece that blends celestial symbolism with traditional folk-art charm.

Celestial Skies Hex

At the heart of this design is a striking starburst, radiating outwards like the sun, representing warmth, guidance, and the light that leads us forward. Surrounding this central star are the phases of the moon, an homage to the ever-turning cycles of nature. From the new moon to the full moon and back again, this pattern reminds us of time’s steady rhythm and the balance between light and dark.

Each Celestial Skies Hex is painted in deep, celestial hues from our Prairie Paint Collection, evoking the mystery and beauty of the night sky. Whether displayed indoors as a statement piece or hung outside to greet the changing seasons, this design brings a sense of harmony and wonder to any space. Sealed with our Prairie Paint Finishing Wax, it’s built to last, preserving its beauty for years to come.

For those who feel a deep connection to the moon, the stars, and the energies of the cosmos, Celestial Skies Hex is more than just art—it’s a reflection of the universe’s timeless patterns.

Available now as a painted barn quilt, DIY kit, or pattern, this celestial-inspired piece is ready to bring a little stardust into your home.

Shop the Celestial Skies Hex today and celebrate the beauty of the night sky!

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Celestial Skies Hex – A Tribute to the Moon and Stars

Wilde Bloem Bee Cross-Stitch Kit & Pattern

We are buzzing with excitement to introduce the latest addition to our Wilde Bloem Collection—the Wilde Bloem Bee Cross-Stitch Pattern and Kit! Inspired by the beauty of nature and the timeless artistry of folk design, this geometric bee is a stunning way to add a touch of handcrafted charm to your home.

Stitch Your Own Wilde Bloem Bee
Whether you're an experienced stitcher or just beginning your cross-stitch journey, this pattern is a joy to create. The finished design measures 8 inches and features a bold, honey-hued bee in warm golds, soft creams, and rich ambers, all set against a striking black background. The geometric styling brings a modern folk-art twist, making it a standout piece in any space.

Everything You Need in One Kit

Our Wilde Bloem Bee Cross-Stitch Kit includes all the essentials for a beautiful finish:

🐝 Aida Cloth (black for a dramatic contrast)

🐝 Embroidery Floss in warm, golden hues

🐝 A Needle

🐝 Sharp Scissors

🐝 A Full-Color Printed Pattern

🐝 A Classic Wooden Frame for Display

With everything included, you can start stitching as soon as your kit arrives—no extra supplies needed!

Available as a Kit or Pattern

If you love the design but prefer to use your own materials, the Wilde Bloem Bee Cross-Stitch Pattern is available separately in two formats:

🌿 A PDF Download for instant access

🌿 A Full-Color Shippable Pattern for those who love a printed guide

A Design That Grows with You

The Wilde Bloem Bee is part of our beloved Wilde Bloem Collection, a series inspired by the untamed beauty of nature. If you love this design, you can also find it as a barn quilt, bringing this modern folk-art bee to life in paint as well as thread.

Order Your Kit or Pattern Today!

Celebrate the artistry of cross-stitch and bring a little handcrafted beauty into your home. Whether you stitch it for yourself or as a gift, the Wilde Bloem Bee is a piece that will be treasured for years to come.

🛍️ Shop the kit or pattern now in our online store and start stitching your own bit of nature-inspired charm!

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Wilde Bloem Bee Cross-Stitch Kit & Pattern

Celebrate Spring with the Tulip Walk Barn Quilt

Spring is on its way, and what better way to welcome the season of renewal than with our brand-new Tulip Walk Barn Quilt? Inspired by the vibrant colors of a blooming tulip garden, this stunning design brings warmth and charm to any space. Whether displayed indoors or outdoors, the Tulip Walk Barn Quilt is a timeless piece that celebrates the beauty of nature and the artistry of traditional quilting.

Hand-Painted with Prairie Paints Each Tulip Walk Barn Quilt is meticulously hand-painted using our exclusive Prairie Paints, a collection of rich, durable hues that enhance the rustic beauty of barn quilt designs. The tulips come to life with bright, cheerful colors, set against a backdrop of carefully weathered textures that add depth and character. Every piece is sealed with our Prairie Paint Finishing Wax, ensuring its durability and protection against the elements, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

Available in Four Sizes We understand that every space is unique, which is why the Tulip Walk Barn Quilt is available in four sizes, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your home, garden, porch, or barn. Whether you want a smaller, accent-sized quilt or a bold statement piece, we have a size that suits your needs.

Create Your Own – DIY Kits & Patterns For those who love the hands-on experience of creating their own barn quilt, we are thrilled to offer Tulip Walk DIY Kits and Patterns. Our DIY kits include everything you need—pre-drawn wooden boards, Prairie Paints, brushes, and instructions—to bring this gorgeous design to life. Whether you’re a seasoned barn quilt painter or a beginner looking for a fun new project, our DIY kits make it easy and enjoyable to craft your own masterpiece.

Bring the Beauty of Spring to Your Home The Tulip Walk Barn Quilt is more than just a piece of art—it’s a celebration of the changing seasons, a nod to quilting traditions, and a joyful reminder of the simple beauty that surrounds us. Whether you choose a hand-painted barn quilt or enjoy painting your own with our DIY kits, this design will brighten your space and lift your spirits.

Order your Tulip Walk Barn Quilt, DIY Kit, or Pattern today and let the colors of spring bloom in your home!

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Celebrate Spring with the Tulip Walk Barn Quilt

Swoony Heart Cross-Stitch Pattern – A Stitch of Love

There’s something truly special about stitching by the fire on a winter evening, cozy under a quilt with a cup of tea nearby. The season of love is upon us, and we are so excited to introduce our newest cross-stitch pattern—Swoony Heart!

This simple yet stunning design is perfect for adding a handmade touch to your home or gifting to someone you love. Whether you're a seasoned stitcher or new to cross-stitch, Swoony Heart is an easy and enjoyable project that brings warmth to the heart and hands.

A Heartfelt Design

Inspired by the geometric beauty of traditional quilt blocks, Swoony Heart features a bold heart at its center, framed by delicate angles and soft pink hues. It brings a perfect balance of classic and modern style, making it a timeless piece to stitch and display year after year.

We chose shades of red and blush pink to create a soft, romantic look, but you can personalize it with any colors that speak to you. Imagine it in rich burgundy for a deep, vintage feel or bright pastels for a fresh, cheerful vibe!

A Stitch for the Season

Winter is the perfect time for cozy projects, and Swoony Heart is a wonderful companion for these slower days. With its simple pattern, it works up quickly—making it an ideal weekend project or a thoughtful handmade Valentine’s gift.

Display it in a rustic wooden frame, turn it into a decorative pillow, or stitch it onto a fabric gift bag for a charming personal touch. However you choose to use it, this design is sure to bring a little extra love into your home.

Get Started Today!

Our Swoony Heart Cross-Stitch Pattern and Kits are available now in our shop! It comes as a digital pattern or a full kit with everything you need—fabric, floss, needle, and instructions.

Ready to stitch your heart out? Shop now and make something swoon-worthy! 💕

👉 Shop Tweetle Dee

Let us know how you plan to use your Swoony Heart stitches! Share your work on social media and tag us—we love seeing your creativity come to life.

Happy stitching and happy heart season! ❤️🪡

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Swoony Heart Cross-Stitch Pattern – A Stitch of Love

Pieces of My Heart Barn Quilt

We’re celebrating love, color, and creativity with our newest barn quilt—Pieces of My Heart! This stunning design is a modern patchwork of vibrant hues, painted in our Prairie Paints and set against a rustic wood-inspired background. It’s the perfect way to add warmth, charm, and a heartfelt touch to your home.

To make this season even sweeter, we’re offering 30% off all heart-themed designs during our Hearts Sale! Use code Hearts30 at checkout to save on barn quilt kits, patterns, and painted pieces. Whether you’re creating a gift for someone special or treating yourself, now is the time to bring home a piece of handcrafted love.

Shop now and let your heart shine! ❤️

Sale ends soon—don’t miss it!

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Pieces of My Heart Barn Quilt

Happy National Chocolate Cake Day! 🎂🍫

It's National Chocolate Cake Day!  A perfect holiday to celebrate and share one of our family's favorite recipes, Mrs. Stuart's Chocolate Cake. I’m thrilled to share one of my all-time favorite chocolate cake recipes, passed down from my beloved Grandma Mildred Lyke through one of her dear friends. 

This recipe is more than just a cake—it’s a piece of our family’s history, filled with love, tradition, and memories around the kitchen table.

I love getting out the old family cookbooks with their notes and details written in.  At the bottom of the page for Mrs. Stuart's recipe (which is written in three cookbooks in our family and the town of Howard), is a notation that this recipe is a family favorite given to Mildred in the 1940's by Mrs. Stuart who lived in the grey house on the corner, across from the church.  

Of you have been around here awhile, you know I love to adapt recipes and this time I added a little twist to the recipe by substituting the 1 cup of hot water with 1 cup of hot coffee. The coffee deepens the chocolate flavor, making it even richer and more decadent. Trust me—if you’re a chocolate lover, you’ll notice the difference!  So from one friend to another, here is my Grandma Lyke's & Mrs. Stuart's Chocolate Cake!

Grandma Lyke's & Mrs. Stuart's Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cocoa
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 cup sour milk

Mix these ingredients together by hand in a large bowl. Be sure to temper the egg yolks by adding them last.

Sift together:

• 2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• A pinch of salt

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture, stirring by hand—no electric mixers allowed! Stir in 1 cup of hot coffee (or water, if you prefer the original recipe).

Finally, beat 2 egg whites until fluffy and fold them into the batter. Bake at 325°F for 45 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test. Let the cake cool completely and frost with your favorite chocolate frosting.

I know it might seem strange not to use a KitchenAid mixer, but trust me—it makes all the difference. Old-fashioned cakes like this were denser and moister than most modern recipes. At nearly 100 years old, this is the cake our family always requests, especially when we want to honor Grandma. Every time I bake it, I feel like Grandma is right there with me, sharing her wisdom and love of slow, handmade treats.

Today feels extra special because National Chocolate Cake Day falls so close to Grandma’s birthday. Sharing this recipe shared between two friends feels like the perfect way to celebrate her memory and keep the sharing among friends alive. We hope you enjoy every slow, homemade bite of this chocolate treasure! 💕

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Happy National Chocolate Cake Day! 🎂🍫