Stylish and comfortable, the knit beanie is a popular accessory that will keep heads warm. Also known as a cap, skull cap or tuque, it is a snug-fitting head covering made from wool, cotton or acrylic fabrics and a fleece or Thinsulate lining for added warmth. It can be worn as a cuffed or slouchy hat and is great for cold weather activities. Beanies are available in many colors, patterns and styles, from plain to embellished. Some feature flaps to cover ears while others are reversible or have an embroidered design. Some are even reflective for extra safety in dimly lit areas.
Knitting is the preferred technique for making a beanie. It uses a series of interconnected loops, called stitches, to create a dense fabric. The material and stitch style chosen for the beanie determines its texture, thickness and color. The stockinette stitch, for example, is a common knitting stitch because it produces a flat, seamless garment that stretches well.
Crochet is another method of beanie-making, using a single crochet hook to pull loops of yarn through existing stitches. It is typically used to make a thicker, chunkier beanie that offers more insulating warmth than its knitted counterpart. The textured surface of a crochet beanie is produced by a variety of stitches, including shell, slip stitch and ribbing.
The versatility of the beanie makes it a fashionable fashion accessory for both men and women. The shape and positioning of the beanie on the head can also make a difference in its appearance. For a slouchy look, position the beanie far back on the head so it bunches at the front of the hair and exposes curly or straight hair. A pom-pom can be attached to the top of the beanie for more embellishment.