A beanie is better when it also covers your ears and neck, and also can’t blow off your head! Use the Intarsia section, or skip it. Use all the colors, or just use one color for everything. It also looks good without a “Ponytail,” but I really like the “Ponytail” – it is fun, different, and really cute. This is a 2-piece construction worked flat, starting from the face ribbing into the body, followed by folding that over and stitching a center-back seam, and then pick up the stitches to start ribbing the Neckband. I write all my patterns so that an experienced beginner can follow. I include thorough details, instructional photos, and a pictorial chart. Cestari’s Mt. Vernon kettle-dyed Fine Merino yarn has rich colors. The pattern instructions include information for using yarn with a different weight. Merino wool does not scratch or itch. See information under the photos regarding other matching patterns, (“Thumb-Hole Fingerless Gloves” and “Medicine Man Tabard Pullover”), which you can find by searching for my name, “Donna Norton,” click on “view all patterns,” and then scroll down to find the matching pattern. So there it is – a Better Beanie! Best wishes to all. Email me if you need me.