The rider who is bringing up the rear (ie last) in the Tour de France is known as the “Lanterne Rouge” – the nickname stems from a time when red lamps used to hang from cabooses on trains.

When I think of the “Lanterne Rouge”, I have to admit I have rather romantic notions – this cyclist does not care if he doesn’t hold the yellow or green jersey, nor does he worry if he is not a contender for the King of the Mountain – because, this cyclist is ecstatic just to be competing in the world’s most prestigious cycling event and does not care where he places. There are times when I sometimes feel a little like a “Lanterne Rouge”, but then I remember that sometimes making it somewhere is usually most of the battle. This design is for anyone who has ever been proud to just show up!

Make this hat in a bright red and no matter how far you fall behind the peloton, they will never be able to lose you!

For this design I took inspiration from the shape of old iron lamps with live flames trapped within, and a ring on top from which you can hand the lamp. Worked in the entirely in the round, twisted stitches (or mini cables), divide the hat into 6 sections, each containing a flame motif on a basic lace background. An angora blend has been used to create a ‘halo’ or ‘glow’ effect. In order to obtain greater stitch definition, all knit stitches are twisted (worked through the back loop).

This hat uses less than one skein of yarn, however, if you make a gauge swatch you will have to unravel it to complete the project.