We all know that in the first Star Trek series, wearing a red shirt, especially if you were a person of color, was a pretty fatal proposition. Don't leave the ship, unnamed security officer, just don't.
But then came The Next Generation. The prime directive stayed the same but the red shirt got a serious upgrade.
Hubba!
Riker was making it work, too.
I've never claimed to be a true sci-fi nerd (whatever that means,) but I was a huge fan of TNG, so when I was assigned some rich red yarn for my Winter 2012 Twist Collective project I didn't need a holodeck to picture my favorite starfleet captain. For sure, I wasn't going to mimic the color blocking and shoulder pads, but I loved the angular lines and slim fit. It had to be something wearable and practical and flattering, all at once.
And so was born Picard.
Photo Copyright Carrie Bostick Hoge
Picard is a top-down seamless raglan with short row shaping around the neck. This construction makes it really easy to modify the garment as you go, especially if you are a little tight on yarn. Once you get going, the stitch pattern is easy to memorize and flows smoothly into the hem ribbing. A little detailing on each sleeve cuff brings it all together.
I finished the garment with buttons, but this would be a great design for a separating two-way zipper or even hook and eye, if you prefer.
If you like this pattern, you can view the magazine page here, the shop page here, and the ravelry page here.
And if you want some reading to pair with your TNG themed knitting, be sure to check out this blog.
I noticed that pattern on Twist Collective a few days ago. Kritin Rengren is married to an old high school friend of my older daughter & he posted a photo from TC of Berwich & my daughter fell in love with it. I should have known when I saw the photo a few days earlier - not only is that the style she likes but it's her favorite shade of green. It's a nice pattern bu I like this one better. In fact, Kristen has another pattern in this issue that I like better Barberry - a nice cabled hoodie in sizes up to 60" & also in children's sizes. This issue has a plenitude of wonderful patterns - I'm always a sucker for something with lots of cables & there are several of them - I remember something very nice by Fiona Ellis & a large, long oversized sweater (shown in ecru) that would be a great fall garment for walks in the woods. I wish you could search the TC site by designer's name. I usually remember that. Or that you could establish a "soeme day" list like on Ravelry. But I love your contributions - the sweater & the hat & cowl (I am still looking for an appropriate yarn).
The detailing is just wonderful on this design. It's obvious that the diaganols are inspired by the Starfleet logo. You've managed to create a lovely style even your nerdiest and usually not very stylish friends -- or relatives -- will love. Perfect!