This pattern is a Beret style hat. It is knitted from the top down using circular needles or DPNs. I use a pinhole cast on for the start.
The hat can be knitted with the magic loop, using one long circular needle for the entire project. Or you can start with DPNs and switch to a circular needle when you have enough stitches on your needle to do so. If using the magic loop, you can also switch to a shorter circular needle and simply knit in the round when you have many stitches on your needle if you prefer that method. Sizes shown are for Medium and Large, both for women.