Gift giving is always a no brainer for me: knit them something! This pattern was designed as a Christmas gift for my cousin Abby (who is the namesake of this pattern). What I especially enjoy about this pattern is how, with each pattern repeat, the foreground and background colors swap places. The effect creates not only an interesting geographic pattern, but stripes as well!

The two color stranding technique used is simple enough for knitters that are just beginning colorwork while still being engaging enough for an experienced knitter. The hat can be masculine or feminine based on the colorways chosen by the knitter. The knitter also has a choice of creating a snug fitting beanie or a beanie that slouches. No matter the type of beanie the knitter chooses to make, the garment will provide warmth and fold to fit easily in a coat pocket.