This is a great windproof beanie, created using 2-tone striping and slipped stitches. The stitch pattern will look very different and cool on the reverse side as well, so you can make it reversible. I used a double stranded thin yarn for extra air between stitches for warmth.

This is a good project for a beginner willing to broaden their knitting horizons!

The pattern uses twisted German cast on: tutorial for it can be found here: link text

Gauge is not of importance. If you want a smaller or bigger beanie, just make sure you have an even number of stitches and adjust amount accordingly, so that when decreases for the top start you will have a number that can be divided by four.