Skill level: Beginner — you will need to know how to cast on, knit, purl, k2tog, join in the round (using circular needles) and weave in ends. These are all basic stitches and you can easily find tutorials for them online and in knitting books.

Finished size: Adult man or woman.

It’s a fairly quick knit — shouldn’t take more than one or two evenings in front of the TV. Best of all, there’s no seaming — once you’re done, weave in the ends and you can wear it right away.

The hat is thick and warm. You use two strands of yarn held together and knit it in one piece. It can be worn over the head and ears, or on the back of the head like a slouchy beret. Looks great if you have bangs.