Non-fatal red shirt
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.