Beanies

One of my favorite things to knit is a nice, basic beanie.  They are quick to knit and are infinitely customizable.  They make a perfect gift for the men on your list.  Add a cute, little pom-pom on top for your favorite lady.  The black and white striped beanie, above, was knit for my son's karate Sensei, and was inspired by his black belt.

This grey, maroon and cream beanie was knit for hubby.

This beanie was also knit for hubby, and was made to match his favorite bike.

Uncle D enjoys his beanie.

My friend Dave models his birthday beanie.

Here is the pattern I use for a basic beanie.  It fits an average 24" head.  You can make it a bit smaller or bigger by adjusting your needle size.

Basic Beanie

(adapted from Better homes and Gardens: Knitting Fun for Everyone)

Supplies:

Worsted-weight yarn (I've used Wool-Ease (197 yds) and Plymouth Encore (200 yds) to make my various beanies.  One skein is enough to make one hat with some left over.)

16" circular needles- Size 7 or 8

DPNs- Size to match your circular needles

Stitch marker

Yarn needle

Gauge:

18stitches/24 rows= 4 inches in stockinette

Instructions:

Cast 84 stitches onto your circular needles.  Place your marker and join for working in the round.

Rounds 1 through 4:  Work in k1, p1 ribbing.

Rounds 5 through 38:  Knit.

Round 39:  *K2tog, k4; repeat from *- 70 stitches.

Round 40:  Knit.

Round 41:  *K2tog, k3; repeat from *- 56 stitches.

Round 42:  Knit.

Round 43:  *K2tog, k2; repeat from *- 42 stitches.

Round 44:  Knit.

Round 45:  *K2tog, k1; repeat from *- 28 stitches.

Round 46:  Knit.

Round 47:  *K2tog; repeat from *- 14 stitches.

Round 48:  *K2tog; repeat from *- 7 stitches.

Cut yarn. Use your yarn needle to run the yarn tail through the remaining 7 stitches and fasten off.  Weave in ends. 

You can add in any color-work you choose to make your own one-of-a-kind beanie.  It also looks nice in one gorgeous solid color.