Dreaming in Color: An Autobiography

by Kaffe Fassett

Kaffe Fassett has led an extraordinary life and is a captivating storyteller with a vivid memory. Born in 1937, he spent much of his youth in Big Sur, California, where his parents bought a cabin from Orson Welles and transformed it into the world-famous Nepenthe restaurant, a gathering place for artists and bohemians.

After attending a boarding school run by the disciples of Krishnamurti, an Indian guru, he studied painting at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, then traveled to England, where he made his home.

After an inspiring trip to Inverness, Scotland, Fassett began designing knitwear for Bill Gibb, and then the Missonis, Vogue magazine, and private clients like Lauren Bacall and Barbra Streisand, and, in the process, revolutionized the handknitting world with his explosive use of color. Further explorations led him to needlepoint, mosaics, rugmaking, tapestries, yarn and fabric design, costume and set design, and quilting.

Now in his seventies, Fassett continues to produce new work and to travel worldwide to teach and lecture. In this intimate autobiography, Fassett shares rich, detailed stories about his lifelong creative journey.

Praise for Kaffe Dreaming in Color:

“Kaffe Fassett is to color what Julia Child was to French cooking.”—Knitters Review

Genres: Biography, Memoir, Art, Nonfiction, Knitting, Autobiography, Crafts

Audible Audio

First published September 1, 2012

Reviews

[Leslie Jenison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I opened this up yesterday and couldn't wait to begin reading it. While on a road trip through Big Sur last summer, stopped at a favorite spot (Nepenthe), I was astonished to learn that the restaurant was owned by Kaffe Fassett's family. This little bit of surprising news made me even more anxious to read his autobiography. I cracked it open last night, and finally had to put it down to go to sleep. It was immediately engaging, with wonderful photos embedded throughout. I love the conversational tone of the writing. One can imagine that Kaffe is sitting next to you, lovely teacup in hand, chatting you up!

[Carmine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great photos. Beautiful colors (but what do you expect from Kaffe Fassett). He has lived a very charmed life and seems to be well aware of it. Classic example: He saw some yarn in colors he liked so he bought it, learned to knit on a train, Vogue Knitting published two patterns and Missoni calls to see if he will design for them. Another example: 'Oh, you are headed to London? Take the keys to my flat.' Not to say there weren't lean times, but he has managed to flit from one medium and location (Big Sur! NY! Boston! London!) to the next with great success. I do love his knitting patterns and fabric and quilt designs.

As interesting as it was to learn about Fassett's background and influences, after awhile it started to read like a 200 page book of acknowledgments- the sort that normally takes up one page in the back of a novel: "I'd like to thank my tireless editor and all the good people at BlaBla Publishing, etc, etc. and my beloved wife/husband/cat."

[Ginny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading a book about such a brilliant, creative person is an inspiring (and humbling) experience! This is without a doubt the most beautifully illustrated autobiography ever -- loads of gorgeous photos accompany a text divided into the decades of Kaffe's life and artistic accomplishments. I've always admired his quilt fabrics without knowing quite what to do with them, but now I can't wait to use some in my very next project. I've also always loved Nepenthe in Big Sur, without knowing of his family connection until sometime in the past decade. I hope his U.S. tour in fall 2013 will bring him to California! I was delighted to learn that he is a fellow lifelong devoted Joan Baez fan and also a fan of Odetta. I wonder if he's ever heard Laurie Lewis?

[Sharon Sorken · Rating 3 out of 5]

Photos are fabulous. He is a fascinating person and so very talented, however, he cannot write. His biography was full of name dropping and meaningless stories. But if you love color, as I do, read the book anyway. You will be very stimulated.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve always been a fan of Fasset’s glorious color sense, whether in needlepoint, patchwork or knitting. Reading about his life is as enriching as looking at any of his creations. I had no idea that his parents created the iconic Nepenthe restaurant in California.

[Sally · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Kaffe Fassett - I love his fabrics and his use of colour and his versatility. (And I met him once and he was charming and generous with his time and expertise. And he said my bag was 'fabulous'...) So I saw his autobiography in the library and had to pick it up.

And it's interesting. The writing style is a bit ponderous (and ungrammatical in a way you don't mind in speech but which jars to me in written prose), and yes, the continuous name-dropping is a bit clanging at times, but... he knew these people and they do seem to be part of the narrative of his life, so... I could get past it.

There are a couple of striking things; one is that he does seem to have been blessed with several strokes of tremendous luck (being given places to live or enough yarn to do a whole knitwear collection...) and the other is that he must have the most tremendous energy. (Perhaps the two are connected, I don't know.) Painting, knitting, needlepoint, mosaic, patchwork, fabric design... he does it all, often simultaneously, and always brilliantly. He sees colour and possibility everywhere and is inspired by everything. (This was my impression when I met him - he (the world famous knitwear designer) was asking me about *my* knitting and when he saw my 'fabulous' bag, asked to look at it and I could tell it was all getting filed away).

Sometimes the tone of the book is a touch self-congratulatory to British ears but on the other hand, sheesh, the man's amazing - he has earned the right to pat himself on the back. And he is always, unfailingly and unstintingly generous in acknowledging the people who have helped, supported and inspired him, and that's always nice.

And visually, the book is glorious. The breadth of the illustrations, their presentation and their sheer quantity make the book a delight to look at. The illustrations are all very well chosen and complement the text perfectly.

[Lorry Chwazik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Visually lush with portraits, illustrations, and pictorial examples of the author's work, this autobiography is a feast for the soul of any creative art and crafts aficionado. Fassett, who perhaps most famously applied his rich and exotic color sense to the textile industry, recounts his bohemian-infused lifestyle with good grace, humor, and gratitude. By tripping lightly through the decades with a multitude of guest appearances by society pals, relatives, friends, and influencers, the author invites the reader to join in the fun. Indeed, upon the closing of this book, this reader almost feels the need to call a taxi to make it home from the party.

[Elizabeth Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this a lot - discovered BBC 4 radio as a result.

[Kym · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had no idea.

I fell in love with Kaffe Fassett's knitting patterns and incredible way with color in the 1980's as I was just beginning to knit. Then, I loved his needlepoints and quilts. I have several of his knitting books, so I was looking forward to reading Dreaming in Color.

I've always thought of Kaffe as British, but it turns out he grew up in Big Sur. I loved reading about his early life and family. Then, learning about his early struggles, paintings and inspirations. Paintings? I didn't know he started out as a painter, doing all of the painterly things like gallery and museum shows.

So many stories were surprising and inspiring to me. It was fun to see some of the sweaters I've loved for years, turn up in the pages of this book, re-inspiring me. It was also interesting to learn the stories that shaped him into the designer he is today. Being able to live a life trying new experiences, traveling and devoting oneself to passions is a dream for many, but reality for Kaffe. Yes. I lived vicariously through his words.

All of this inspiration and beauty touched my heart.

[Lyman]

Fascinating book. I enjoyed every page. I had never heard of him. I was directed to Amazon for something else and this picture caught my eye so I checked it out. He is a few years older than I, so I felt right at home when he talks about everyone he's met through the years. He has definitely been in the right place at the right time. I so wish I had know about his knits in the beginning. I crochet, but I would have learned to knit to make myself one of his sweaters. I am a male who has never been shy about wearing color. I also did needlepoint. I even designed seat cushions for a small church choir pew. Each member did the needlepoint for their chair. They were spectacular. people also were always asking me to change out the color for cross stitch patterns. I wonder if like Kaffe,if I had been in the right place what would have happened. If you knit, needlepoint, quilt, paint or just enjoy the arts you need to read this delightful book. It is so amazing. You will not be disappointed. Enjoyed reading and seeing all the wonderful photographs. I loved every page.

[Merri Dillinger · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really knew little about Kaffe Fassett beyond his incredible fabrics and patchwork designs, and that he also used to knit (yes, I know that is an understatement). Recently I was able to attend one of his talks in Hamilton, MO, and found him very entertaining, informative and funny. So I ordered his autobiography to read a little more about him.

Wow, what a life! I hope in real life he is as kind, generous, and gracious as he comes across in the book. I also really enjoy reading about the process an artist goes through, and Fasset’s journey is a wonderful artistic evolution.

It isn’t the most personal of books. It seems more about Kaffe Fassett the artist vs. Kaffe Fassett the person—but honestly, that was okay with me.

[Eryl Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glorious Kaffe

Thousands of people all over the world love the colour and design inspiration Kaffe Fassett has provided for us. This is a marvellous book about his creative journey rather than the interior workings of his heart and mind, but to those of us who are fired up by looking at his knits, tapestries, quilts and mosaics, it’s just bliss. So happy that he made a successful career from what gives him - and us - joy.

[Nancy Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was great to read this after looking through several of his quilting books in the last few months. This is more satisfying--not just photos and patterns, but the whole story of his unusual life and how he gets inspiration. I love the way he throws himself into craft after craft--needlepoint, mosaics, fabric design--as well as the knitting and quilting I already knew about. An amazing man.

[Barb · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting to know the context of this very creative man's history. And the book is rich with color photos of his work and family and friends. Written is simple prose, it is not a stunning read. But if you are interested in fiberarts or painting it is worth looking at.

[Lisa Baudry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the detail in this book. Kaffe is a fantastic storyteller. Learning about his upbringing, education and approach to art and business is incredibly inspiring. His generosity shines on every page.

[Donna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have appreciated the extravagant use of color in Kaffe Fassett’s designs for many years as a quilter and more recently a knitter and own several of his books. The photos in his autobiography, Dreaming in Color, are absolutely beautiful but his writing gets bogged down in excessive minutiae.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm smitten with the fabrics Kaffe Fassett has created which led me down the rabbit trail to buying this book.

Happily the book is full of colorful photos of all his arts- knitting, mosaics, fabrics...

His life is fascinating.

[She Who Shall Remain Nameless · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gorgeous pictures

Full disclosure: I only looked at the pictures and did not read the text. I absolutely love this man’s use of color. His needlepoint designs, especially the chairs, are my favorite. I also loved that mural that he did that was painted over. What a crime.

[Rosemarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Colors

The combinations are stunning. The patterns are breathtaking. It’s a unique and special collection of art in fabric. Well worth a read.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars because 10 stars isn't an option ... but it should be for this book. Loved it!

[Stephen Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring . A man who pursed his creative passion

[Lynda Day · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fasinating

To learn about the life of one of my favorite fabric artists, and realize how extensive his talents were is more than fascinating.

[Pen Winton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful coffee style table book about his life. Incredible illustration

[sharan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautiful book, lovely examples of Fasset's work.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like others here, I adore Kaffe Fassett materials and needlepoint designs. He is a contented person doing what he loves. When I saw him having a rest at a book signing, he didn't pull out a smart phone, he pulled out a little piece of knitting. I bought this book because I wanted to understand how someone could live a life immersed in colour and be so happy through and through.
I agree that he seemed to lead a charmed life, but that didn't seem entirely by accident. Artists are often drawn to bohemian or up and coming areas (often because they are cheap and highly creative), and from these melting pots stars arise. Kaffe was always open to possibilities and such an engaging and genuine person, that I could see myself handing him my flat keys ... certainly in 'hipper' times.
I'll admit that he's not a gifted writer, but I'd rather have his words than some polished ghost writing.
Ultimately, it gave me the insight I sought: embrace colour, opportunity ad people; do what you love and don't expect to make money at it (the money is just gravy); don't fret about what you don't have, cherish what you do. It's a wonderful philosophy - probably the one we have as children but lose as we get focused on making money to buy 'stuff'.
Not all of us are artists. I'm certainly not, and I would probably have made different choices to Kaffe. However, I am so grateful that his choices and talent has given me many, many hours of colourful, creative therapy and little tasters of what an artists life might be like.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an inspiring book for me in so many ways.

I was first introduced to Kaffe Fassett's work as a Rowan devotee in the early nineties, when I first learned to knit. Fassett's designs in Rowan's glossy pattern books were always eye-catching, unique and beautiful. While his designs were not something that I would normally make for myself, they are true works of art, with bold and joyful use of color. They are truly inspiring. Most recently, I have become acquainted with Fassett's line of fabrics - gorgeous, saturated cottons.

Fassett is to textiles what David Hockney is to painting. There is something at once Californian AND English about both of them. Fassett is a native Californian living in England, whereas Hockney is a native Englishman living in California. But it is more than that - their sensibility, their playfulness with color, their bold use of botanical motifs, etc.

I was even more delighted to learn that Fassett grew up in Big Sur, which is a very special place for me. I have spent quite a bit of time there and my husband and I were married there. Fassett's family built Nepenthe, a landmark on the Big Sur coast that is still in operation today. So, I am enjoying reading about Big Sur, its environs and its many characters, including Henry Miller.

There are so many gorgeous, full-color photographs - of Fassett, his family, his fabrics and designs and paintings - this book is a true feast. I love it.

[Kris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been a Kaffe Fassett fan for 30 years. He is probably the biggest reason why I knit -- I was drawn in by the sheer number of colors and shadings of his work, and because of this I have studied his type of knitting for years and years, never feeling bored.

I was quite surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. Kaffe Fassett began as an artist from California, moving to London as a young man and learning about life and art through the years he has lived there. He stumbled upon knitting, and never looked back. But what I have learned is that he kept up with his artwork, all through his knitting years. I knew that he had branched out into needlepoint and quilting, natural progressions from knitting, but he always retained the artist's mindset while doing so.

What I especially enjoyed about this book was the kindness and love that he showed when speaking about people he has worked with over the years. Many artists tend to be pretty self-absorbed (my grandfather was somewhat this way as an artist) but Kaffe wrote so lovingly about the people that he worked with that it was very enchanting. I was very happy to see this kind of attitude.

[Lucy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've liked Kaffe Fassett's sense of color since I first saw the book Glorious Knits, and then Glorious Needlepoint. This book gives an idea how he started out in California and then through various world travels and living in England developed his extraordinary sensitivity and boldness with color. He has also delved into mosaic, patchwork & decorating, in books and also in TV productions, which I didn't know about. We get to see and hear about his many influences and the people he has met through the years. Also featured are many of his own paintings.
His chapters are: Childhood in California 1937-1956; Striking Out on My Own 1956-1964; England in the Swinging Sixties 1964-1969; My Design Work Takes Off 1970-1979, The Glorious Eighties 1980-1989; Finding Color in a Gray World 1990 and beyond.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating book, mostly due to finding out his parents started the legendary Big Sur restaurant, Nepenthe, (and reading lots of details of how that came about...) and that he grew up in the hippie days of Big Sur. Henry Miller lived down the road and often ate supper with them, countless creative folks lived in Big Sur then and were a regular part of his family's life. The freedom his parents gave their children and the exposure to all the arts made him the man he is today. I loved his surety about color and design and his choice to drop out of art school because he couldn't bear to learn the color wheel! He's a man who seems to have followed his heart and inner artist at every turn and it's worked well for him.
He's not a writer, but this book is chock-full of full pages of color photos and those are richer than the text. Thus the 4 rating...

[Elsabe Retief · Rating 5 out of 5]

I borrowed the book from the library, but I need to own this. Inspiration and confirmation causing endless joy.
This biography read like the best hippie novel ever.
I hope Kaffe is very conscious of the incredible joy he spreads. How we revel in those exquisite fabrics. How it makes my soul soar and my need to create an exhilarating pleasure.
I am an emigrant from colourful, vibrant and inventive South Africa to Canada. Canadian culture naturally adheres to a much more neutral palette evident even in food. I would love to understand more about how it has evolved because it has to do with much more than just the flavour of the week or trend. Could it be weather related? Think Brazil and India.
This book is brilliantly written and the layout vibrant and beautiful. A multi coloured gem for ever.