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! 🎂🍫

Eastern Star Cross Stitch Pattern & Kit

We’re thrilled to unveil the newest addition to our collection—the Eastern Star Cross Stitch Pattern and Kit! Inspired by the neutral color palette of our beloved Eastern Star Barn Quilt, this design brings rustic charm and timeless elegance to your stitching projects.

This pattern features a single color stitched on beautifully hand-dyed aida cloth, creating the illusion of wood grain. Its simplicity highlights the stunning geometry of the Eastern Star design, making it perfect for both seasoned stitchers and beginners.

The Eastern Star is available as a complete kit, which includes everything you need to get started, or as a pattern for those who prefer to use their own materials. Whether you’re stitching it for your home or as a gift, this design is sure to be a favorite.

Shop and Save

Celebrate the release of the Eastern Star Cross Stitch Kit and Pattern with our special offer! Save 30% on all orders using the code Celebrate30 at checkout.

Let’s celebrate creativity and stitch something beautiful together. 🧵✨

Shop Here.

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Eastern Star Cross Stitch Pattern & Kit

Fall in Love with Our Cupid's Arrow Design

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and we couldn’t be more excited to introduce Cupid’s Arrow, a design that captures the spirit of love and creativity. Whether you’re celebrating with someone special or treating yourself to a little joy, this charming design is perfect for adding a heartfelt touch to your space or projects.

Crafted with care and painted in our rich Prairie Paints, Cupid’s Arrow is available in a variety of options to suit every maker and decorator:

• Large Painted Barn Quilts: Prefer a ready-to-hang option? Our hand-painted barn quilts feature this timeless design, ready to adorn your home or give as a gift.

Cupid's Arrow Cross Stitch Kits and Patterns

• Cross-Stitch Kits and Patterns: Cozy up and enjoy the art of stitching with Cupid’s Arrow in cross-stitch form. It’s a delightful project for quiet moments by the fire.

Cupid's Arrow Barn Quilt Kits

• Barn Quilt Kits and Patterns: Bring the warmth of love to life with your own hands. Our kits include everything you need to create a beautiful barn quilt, while patterns let you add your unique spin.

Celebrate Love and Save!

We’re spreading the love with our Celebrate Sale—enjoy 30% off all orders with code Celebrate30. It’s the perfect time to pick up Cupid’s Arrow or explore other designs to brighten your space. Hurry, this offer won’t last long!

Cupid’s Arrow is more than a design—it’s a celebration of connection and creativity. Whether you’re making a thoughtful gift or decorating your space with a touch of love, this pattern speaks to the heart.

Visit our shop to explore the full range of Cupid’s Arrow products and take advantage of our Celebrate Sale today!

Celebrate Love, Dream Creativity, Create Beauty

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Fall in Love with Our Cupid's Arrow Design

Introducing the Benjamin Bunny Barn Quilt Pattern

Spring is just around the corner, and our new Benjamin Bunny Barn Quilt is here to hop into your heart and home! This whimsical design features a charming bunny silhouette with a vibrant patchwork body, painted in cheerful hues from our Prairie Paint Collection. Perfect for Easter or any spring décor, Benjamin Bunny adds a touch of rustic charm to your walls, porch, or garden.

We’re thrilled to offer this delightful design in multiple formats to suit every creative spirit:

• Pre-Painted Barn Quilt: Hand-painted and sealed with our Prairie Paint Finishing Wax, this ready-to-hang masterpiece is perfect for instant enjoyment.
• DIY Barn Quilt Kit: Unleash your creativity with a complete kit that includes the wood, Prairie Paints, and everything you need to bring Benjamin Bunny to life.
• PDF or Paper Pattern: Ideal for quilters and painters who love crafting with their own materials.

Whether you’re looking for a fun project or a unique gift, Benjamin Bunny is sure to delight. Hop over to our shop to grab yours today and make this spring one to remember.  Use code Celebrate30 to save 30% on all orders this week!

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Introducing the Benjamin Bunny Barn Quilt Pattern

Gingerbread Cottage

Add a touch of holiday magic to your home with our newest embroidery kit—the Gingerbread Cottage! This delightful kit is the perfect project for both seasoned crafters and those just beginning their embroidery journey. Inspired by the cozy charm of a gingerbread house dusted with snow, this piece is sure to bring a warm and festive feeling to any space.

The Gingerbread Cottage is an 8x8 design created with a combination of cotton and wool, making it a tactile and visually engaging addition to your holiday decor. Every detail has been thoughtfully curated, from the snowy white rickrack and tiny snowball embellishments to the glittering stars that twinkle in the background. At the heart of the design is an adorable gingerbread house surrounded by whimsical trees and frosted accents, capturing the essence of a winter wonderland.

Our kits include everything you need to create your own Gingerbread Cottage masterpiece. Inside, you'll find:

• The full pattern and templates to guide you step-by-step

• Cotton and wool fabrics for the design

• High-quality embroidery floss

• A sturdy embroidery hoop

• A needle and scissors

Whether you're crafting this for yourself or gifting it to a loved one, the Gingerbread Cottage kit offers a creative and joyful way to celebrate the holiday season.

As an extra treat, we're spreading holiday cheer with a 20% discount on all items in our online shop. Use the code Holiday20 at checkout to save on your Gingerbread Cottage kit and any other treasures you find. This special offer is available through Christmas, so don't wait to stock up on festive projects and gifts.

Create lasting memories and a beautiful keepsake with the Gingerbread Cottage embroidery kit. Visit our shop today to order your kit and take advantage of the holiday savings. Happy stitching and happy holidays!

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Gingerbread Cottage

Winter Flake Cross Stitch

Capture the magic of winter with our brand-new Winter Flake Cross Stitch Pattern and Kit! Inspired by the delicate symmetry of snowflakes and the festive colors of the season, this design is perfect for both beginners and seasoned stitchers looking to add a touch of handcrafted charm to their holiday decor.

The Winter Flake design features crisp reds, greens, and icy blues arranged in a timeless geometric pattern that evokes the serenity of a snowy day. Whether you’re stitching by the fire or enjoying a cozy evening indoors, this project will bring warmth to your heart and home.

Our complete kit includes everything you need to get started: premium-quality Aida fabric, vibrant floss, a needle, a color-printed pattern guide, and step-by-step instructions. We’ve also included tips for framing your finished piece, making it easy to display your work or gift it to someone special.

Why not make this part of your holiday crafting tradition? The Winter Flake design is not only a joy to create but also a thoughtful way to celebrate the season's beauty. Pair it with one of our embroidery classes or share the kit with a fellow crafter for a creative holiday gift.

Available now in our shop, the Winter Flake Cross Stitch Pattern and Kit is ready to bring a little extra sparkle to your winter days. Order yours today and let the stitching begin!

Celebrate, Dream, Create.

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Winter Flake Cross Stitch

The Crested Butte Star Barn Quilt

We are thrilled to unveil our newest barn quilt design, the Crested Butte Star. Inspired by the rugged beauty and vibrant charm of the Rocky Mountains, this hand-painted masterpiece combines classic quilt artistry with our Prairie Paint Colors, creating a striking design that’s both bold and timeless.

The Crested Butte Star celebrates the natural beauty of mountain landscapes, echoing the patchwork of wildflower meadows, sunlit valleys, and snow-capped peaks. The intricate pattern, painted with precision and care, features a harmonious blend of deep reds, soft greens, warm golds, and serene blues, all framed by a grounding touch of black. Each color comes from our Prairie Paint Collection, known for its rich pigments and enduring quality.

Whether displayed indoors as a statement piece or outdoors to add a pop of personality to your garden or barn, this barn quilt is a versatile addition to your décor. It is designed to withstand the elements, sealed with our Prairie Paint Finishing Wax to ensure long-lasting beauty.

The Crested Butte Star comes in four sizes to fit any space perfectly. Choose a smaller size to add character to a cozy nook, or opt for a larger size to make a bold impression on an exterior wall. No matter where you hang it, this barn quilt will be a stunning focal point, sparking conversation and admiration.

Crafted by hand with love and attention to detail, the Crested Butte Star is more than just a decoration—it’s a celebration of heritage, artistry, and nature. Bring the spirit of the mountains to your home and make this heirloom-quality piece part of your story today.

Shop now and find the perfect size to suit your space. We can’t wait to see how you display the Crested Butte Star! We are thrilled to unveil our newest barn quilt design, the Crested Butte Star. Inspired by the rugged beauty and vibrant charm of the Rocky Mountains, this hand-painted masterpiece combines classic quilt artistry with our Prairie Paint Colors, creating a striking design that’s both bold and timeless.

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The Crested Butte Star Barn Quilt

Midnight Village Square Barn Quilt

Celebrate the warmth of home and the beauty of a starry winter night with our new Midnight Village Square Barn Quilt. This stunning design brings together the magic of a peaceful village and the timeless charm of quilt artistry. A radiant star shines at the heart of the piece, surrounded by colorful houses and evergreen trees, all hand-painted in deep, rich hues from our Prairie Paint Collection.

Midnight Village Square Barn Quilt 

The Midnight Village Square Barn Quilt is more than just decor—it's a statement of tradition and craftsmanship. Each piece is crafted on durable wood, framed in natural cedar, and sealed with our Prairie Paint Finishing Wax to protect its beauty for years to come. Whether displayed indoors to cozy up a living space or outdoors to adorn a porch or garden, this barn quilt creates a welcoming and heartwarming ambiance.

Available in four sizes, it’s easy to find the perfect fit for your space or gift-giving needs as well as a DIY paint your own barn quilt kit and pattern.

Let the Midnight Village Square Barn Quilt transport you to a place of quiet beauty and festive cheer every time you see it.  Bring the charm of village life under the stars to your home this season. Shop now and save 30% on all orders this week with code HoHoHo!

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Midnight Village Square Barn Quilt

The Craftsman Star Barn Quilt

Introducing the new Craftsman Star Barn Quilt, a stunning addition to Tweetle Dee’s collection of barn quilt designs. Available as a pattern, DIY kit, or a ready-to-hang painted barn quilt, this design brings a modern twist to the timeless tradition of barn quilts, blending bold lines and symbolic colors that capture the heart of Amish artistry.

The Craftsman Star Barn Quilt is offered with either a classic white or black background, giving you the flexibility to choose the perfect contrast for your space. The star pattern features all the shades from the Amish Color Wheel, a palette rich in vibrant hues like red, blue, yellow, and green. These colors represent the blessings of love, peace, joy, and belonging, central to Amish heritage and the values of a welcoming home.

Each of the colors used in the Craftsman Star comes from our Prairie Paint Collection, available in our shop. This exclusive collection allows you to use these rich, timeless hues in your own DIY projects or other home decor ideas.

Whether you’re an experienced quilter or new to the craft, the Craftsman Star DIY kit is perfect for those who love to create. It includes everything you need to paint your own masterpiece. For those who prefer a hands-off approach, our hand-painted barn quilt is ready to be displayed on your wall, porch, or barn, spreading warmth and beauty to all who see it.

The Craftsman Star isn’t just a piece of art; it’s a symbol of connection, tradition, and home. Embrace the beauty and blessings of the Amish culture with this timeless design.

Available now from Tweetle Dee.

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The Craftsman Star Barn Quilt

Introducing the Wild Yarrow Embroidery Kit from the Botanical Garden Collection

We are thrilled to unveil our latest creation—the Wild Yarrow Embroidery Kit, part of our Botanical Garden Collection. Inspired by nature’s timeless beauty, this design captures the essence of yarrow, a plant known for its delicate yet resilient presence in the wild. Each stitch mirrors the fine details of a botanical drawing, reminiscent of vintage herbarium illustrations that would have adorned the pages of old black photography books.

The Wild Yarrow design celebrates the elegance of nature and invites you to embrace its symbolism. In ancient traditions, yarrow is believed to represent bravery in love and healing. As you embroider each petal and stem, you'll be connecting with this powerful symbolism, weaving a story of resilience and courage into your creation. Whether you're stitching for yourself or gifting this meaningful piece to a loved one, the Wild Yarrow design holds the promise of warmth and strength.

Our kits include everything you need to bring this botanical beauty to life. Each kit comes complete with the fabric, floss, needle, embroidery hoop, scissors, and an easy-to-follow pattern, allowing both beginners and seasoned stitchers to enjoy the process. The result is a stunning piece of art that stands out against the black fabric, bringing a touch of nature into your home.

The frame, sold separately, is the perfect complement to the finished embroidery, offering a rustic charm that beautifully showcases the intricate details of your work. Handcrafted and painted in rich, earthy tones, the frame adds a timeless touch to this modern heirloom.

Bring the Wild Yarrow into your creative space and stitch your own piece of botanical history. Whether you seek beauty, bravery, or healing, this design is a tribute to nature’s enduring wisdom.

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Introducing the Wild Yarrow Embroidery Kit from the Botanical Garden Collection

Celebrating Lughnasadh: A Time of Harvest and Connection

Lughnasadh, the ancient Celtic festival, marks the beginning of the harvest season, celebrating the first fruits of the land and honoring the cycles of nature. This year, our Lughnasadh celebration was a tapestry of tradition, creativity, and gratitude, weaving together old customs and new practices that brought us closer to the earth, the sky, and our ancestors.

Refreshing the Sourdough Starter

Our day began with the simple yet profound act of refreshing our sourdough starter. This practice, rooted in the tradition of sustaining and nourishing, felt especially meaningful as we honored the harvest. The tangy aroma of the starter filled our kitchen, symbolizing not just the sustenance of our bodies but also the continuation of ancient baking traditions passed down through generations. As we mixed and fed the starter, we reflected on the cyclical nature of life and the importance of preserving these culinary customs.

Harvesting Herbs

Next, we ventured into our garden to harvest herbs, a ritual that connected us directly to the land. The scent of rosemary, thyme, and sage filled the air as we gathered these fragrant plants. Harvesting herbs at Lughnasadh is a way to honor the earth’s bounty and the hard work that goes into cultivating it. Each snip of the shears was a reminder of the partnership between humanity and nature, and the gratitude we owe to the earth for providing us with sustenance and healing.

Painting a Blue Belle

Creativity is an integral part of our celebrations, and this year we chose to paint a Blue Belle barn quilt. The vibrant blue and white patterns not only added a touch of beauty to our surroundings but also symbolized protection and good fortune. As we painted, we felt a deep connection to the artistic traditions of our ancestors, who used similar symbols and patterns to decorate their homes and express their gratitude for the harvest. The process of creating something beautiful with our hands was both meditative and joyful, enhancing our sense of connection to the past and the present.

Lighting the Fire Pit

As the sun began to set, we gathered around the fire pit. Lighting a fire at Lughnasadh is a time-honored tradition, representing the sun's power and the warmth of community. The crackling flames provided a focal point for our gathering, bringing us together in a circle of light and warmth. We shared stories, sang songs, and reflected on the significance of the harvest season. The fire not only symbolized the sun’s life-giving energy but also served as a reminder of the fires our ancestors lit to celebrate this special time of year.

Enjoying Seasonal Berries

Our Lughnasadh feast was a celebration of the earth’s abundance, featuring a variety of seasonal berries. Juicy blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries graced our table, their vibrant colors and sweet flavors a testament to the richness of the harvest. As we savored each bite, we felt a profound appreciation for the cycles of nature and the labor that brings food from the earth to our table. The berries were not just a delicious treat but also a symbol of the season’s bounty and the rewards of hard work and patience.

Learning from the Sabbats Almanac

This year, we deepened our understanding of Celtic traditions with the help of a Sabbats Almanac. This invaluable resource provided insights into the rituals, myths, and customs of Lughnasadh, enriching our celebration and helping us feel more connected to our heritage. The almanac guided us through the significance of each tradition, from the symbolism of the harvest to the spiritual practices that honor the earth and sky. By immersing ourselves in this knowledge, we felt a stronger bond with our ancestors and a greater appreciation for the wisdom they passed down through the ages.

A Heartfelt Gratitude

As we concluded our Lughnasadh celebration, we felt a deep sense of gratitude. The day had been a beautiful blend of tradition and innovation, allowing us to honor the past while creating new memories. We were thankful for the first harvest of the season, the earth’s generous bounty, and the opportunity to connect with our heritage in meaningful ways. Lughnasadh reminded us of the importance of community, creativity, and gratitude, and we look forward to carrying these lessons with us into the coming months.

Celebrating Lughnasadh has left us feeling more connected to the earth, the sky, and our ancestors than ever before. This festival is a powerful reminder of the cycles of nature, the importance of tradition, and the beauty of coming together to celebrate life’s abundance.

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Celebrating Lughnasadh: A Time of Harvest and Connection

Through the Woods Barn Quilt

We're thrilled to unveil our latest creation, the Through the Woods Barn Quilt. This enchanting design is perfect for adding a touch of winter magic to your home or barn. Featuring a darling gingerbread cottage, surrounded by majestic pine trees and blanketed in frosted snow, this barn quilt captures the essence of a cozy winter wonderland.

The inspiration behind the Through the Woods Barn Quilt comes from fond memories of childhood winters, where the world seemed to transform into a snowy paradise. The charming gingerbread cottage at the heart of the design brings a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of holiday baking and the warmth of home. Its whimsical details and inviting appearance make it a perfect focal point for any space.

Surrounding the cottage, the tall, pine trees add a tough of whimsy. with their bright and vintage inspired colors. The frosted snow spread across the design, adds a magical touch, making the scene sparkle with winter's chill.  

The Through the Woods Barn Quilt is available in three sizes and is part of our Holiday Collection.  Save 30% on the entire collection though August 1st with code ChristmasinJuly.  

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Through the Woods Barn Quilt

Introducing the Maple Leaf Barn Quilt Design from Tweetle Dee

We are thrilled to unveil our latest creation at Tweetle Dee: the stunning Maple Leaf Barn Quilt. This exquisite design is a tribute to the beauty of nature and the timeless charm of barn quilts, perfect for adding a touch of rustic elegance to any space.

The Maple Leaf Barn Quilt is meticulously hand-painted on aged cedar, a material that not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also ensures durability and longevity. Each piece is crafted with care, reflecting the dedication and artistry that define our work at Tweetle Dee.

Our Prairie Paint colors bring the Maple Leaf design to life. These colors include:

• Homestead: A warm, inviting hue that evokes the coziness of a country home.
• Cattle Drive Coffee: A rich, earthy brown reminiscent of the open prairies.
• Sugar Maple: A vibrant orange that captures the essence of autumn leaves.
• Hay Down: A soft, golden yellow that brings a touch of sunshine.
• Tool Barn: A deep, rustic red that adds a bold statement.

The combination of these colors creates a beautiful, harmonious palette that enhances the intricate Maple Leaf pattern.

We offer the Maple Leaf Barn Quilt in four different sizes to suit various spaces and preferences:

• 22 inches
• 33 inches
• 44 inches
• 55 inches

Whether you want a small accent piece or a larger statement artwork, we have the perfect size for you.

For those who love to get hands-on with their creativity, we have exciting options. Our new pattern for the Maple Leaf design is available as both a PDF download and a paper pattern, making it easy for DIY enthusiasts to paint their own Maple Leaf Barn Quilt. This pattern provides detailed instructions and tips, ensuring a rewarding and enjoyable painting experience.

Additionally, we offer the Maple Leaf Barn Quilt Kit, which includes everything you need to create your own masterpiece. The kit features a 22" cedar barn quilt board, a set of Prairie Paints, and the Maple Leaf pattern. This all-in-one package is perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike, providing a seamless way to bring the beauty of the Maple Leaf design into your home.

At Tweetle Dee, we are passionate about creating unique, high-quality barn quilts that celebrate tradition and craftsmanship. The Maple Leaf Barn Quilt is a testament to this commitment, offering a timeless design that will be cherished for years to come.

We invite you to explore the Maple Leaf Barn Quilt and all the creative possibilities it brings. Whether as a finished piece or a DIY project, this design is sure to add warmth and charm to any space. Thank you for being part of the Tweetle Dee family, and happy crafting!

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Introducing the Maple Leaf Barn Quilt Design from Tweetle Dee

Colors of Love

Introducing our latest creation, the "Colors of Love" barn quilt design! Inspired by the timeless beauty of Dresden patterns, this heart-shaped masterpiece bursts with the vibrant hues of the rainbow, symbolizing the diverse ways we express and receive love. Crafted meticulously and painted using our exclusive Prairie Paint Collection, each shade tells a story of affection, unity, and joy.

The "Colors of Love" design is more than just a visual delight; it’s a celebration of love in all its forms. Whether it’s the warm embrace of family, the unwavering support of friends, or the simple acts of kindness shared between strangers, this quilt embodies them all. The dynamic blend of colors represents inclusivity and the boundless spectrum of human connections.

Perfect for adding a splash of color and a heartfelt message to your home or garden, this barn quilt is a testament to the universal language of love. At Tweetle Dee, we believe in creating art that resonates with the heart, and the "Colors of Love" is a perfect example.

To make this beautiful design accessible to everyone, "Colors of Love" is available in a variety of formats: as a pattern, a kit, and in three different sizes of barn quilt. Bring this symbol of love and unity into your space and let its vibrant message brighten your days.

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Colors of Love