Glorious Patchwork

by Kaffe Fassett

The landmark quilting book from a modern-day quilting legend.

For more than two decades, Kaffe Fassett’s sumptuously textured, vibrantly colored designs have thrilled readers and inspired them to pile on color and break the rules. In Glorious Patchwork —one of his most spectacular and original books—Kaffe presents more than 25 designs that draw on the essence of his colorwork. Divided into five color themes—ranging from soft pastels and leafy gardens to bold circus hues—these stunning designs bear Kaffe’s unmistakable stamp. Every chapter includes projects with varying difficulty, so beginners and experienced quilters alike can replicate the masterpiece quilts inside.

Genres: Quilting, Reference, Crafts, Nonfiction, Sewing

160 pages, Paperback

First published September 25, 1997

Reviews

[Lobstergirl · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not a quilter or a sewer (except when I have to sew on a button or something) and I've never made any of these. Some of the designs could be used as inspirations for kitting, which is probably why I bought it. There is no one better than Fassett at seeing images and patterns in the world and translating them into knits, e.g., the nails and screws displayed in small boxes in a Vietnam market on p. 6. The Roman Blocks quilt on p. 36 is incredible and if I saw it in a store I would probably steal it. But there's way too much floral in the book, too much Victoriana, which makes me queasy, and not enough of the truly radical color combining that Fassett introduced in Glorious Knits.

[Dara Branham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ive poured through this book multiple times. There is so much to learn and glean each time you pick up a quilting book, especially as a seamstress. I gathered a new idea just this week from the book and even though the floral fabrics are dated - looking at the shapes and color ways i have a new quilt brewing in my mind. There is always something to captivate the imagination from The Artist Kaffe Fasset.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely examples of patch working, with patterns and instructions for a wide variety of quilts. Bonus for some of the gorgeous photos showing quilts in combination with crochet throws, needlepoint pillows and other lovely textiles that mimic patch working.

[Diane Schrader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kaffe Fassett books are a visual feast and extremely inspiring. Crafter porn lol.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This volume, while not new, is not out-of-date in any way. It features a number of Kaffe Fasset's quilts that demonstrate that more can be more. His designs are simple enough for any mid-level quilter or new quilter to handle. The true inspirtion for me lies in Fassett's wonderous use of color and value. The book inspires me to make similar quilts, but also provides inspiration for use of that fabric stash that has accumulated, waiting to be turned into a treasure. Since some of my stash is aging, perhaps this classic books serves up ideas on how to use them in patterns of their same era. You just can't miss if you love quilts, design or color. Pretty as a coffee table book, but a utilitarian pattern book as well.

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kaffe Fassett is a visionary when it comes to color. He sees things through different eyes. While some of his color combinations and business of the quilt tops could be offensive to some, I think that one has to see the brilliance of his work. I can look at this book over and over and come away with something new each and every time. For that I consider it a treasure. If you sew or love fabric this is one not to miss.

[Maureen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love looking at Kaffe Fassett's quilts but have never tried making one. The colors are often too gaudy for my tastes if I think about having them in my home. I love looking at them though. In this book and in Quilt stores they are beautiful.

[Denise Kettering · Rating 2 out of 5]

The pictures in this book are beautiful and the use of color as part of the design was wonderful. As someone new to quilting, however, the patterns were a bit beyond my capabilities. It may be a book I return to later rather than use now.

[Relyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kaffe Fassett never disappoints. His books are a treat for the eyes whether you quilt or not. WOW!

[Judi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brought this with me to the workshop at the MFA Boston on 5/1/2005; Kaffe also kindly autographed this one!

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the mix of colors and patterns in this book.

[Melissa Bourque · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very beautiful.

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The cover page alone is very inspiring, and the design is so doable as explained. That goes for other designs ideas as well. I love the world of Mr. Fassett.