One of my resolutions for 2017 is to spend less and create more, especially when it comes to my wardrobe. When I was a kid, my grandmother taught me the basics of crocheting. Over the years, I've crocheted several scarves, and even a few headbands. But it wasn't until recently that I decided it was time to step up my crochet game.

After researching various patterns on Pinterest, I tried my hand at crocheting a chunky pom pom beanie, and it turned out better than I could have ever imagined. It was surprisingly simple to make and has done an impeccable job keeping my head warm this winter. 

SUPPLIES

• 1 skein of yarn

• Crochet hook (size varies by yarn weight)

• 1 large darning needle

• Scissors

BEANIE DIRECTIONS:

STEP 1 | Begin by working a foundation chain measuring roughly 9", or the distance between the top of your head and your eye line. This will make the chain lines vertical and leave enough room to fold up the brim. For a taller brim, add a few more chains.

STEP 2 | Turn the chain and work a single crochet stitch across. Repeat until it (almost) wraps around your head. You want the beanie to be slightly smaller as the yarn will stretch.

STEP 3 | Connect the two vertical ends with a single crochet stitch across, knot, and cut off the excess yarn. Using the darning needle, weave a string of yarn through each chain along one side and pull until it gathers together. Knot, flip the beanie inside out, and roll up the brim.

POM POM DIRECTIONS:

STEP 1 | Wrap the remaining yarn horizontally across your fingers. Repeat until it's the desired thickness – the thicker the yarn bundle, the larger the pom pom will be.

STEP 2 | Hold the yarn bundle together and pull it off your fingers. Place it on top of a short piece of yarn, and tie a tight knot over the center of the yarn bundle. Flip and tie the short piece of yarn into a tight knot. Repeat 1-2 more times until it feels secure. Cut through the loops on both sides.

STEP 3 | Fluff and shape. To do this, carefully roll the pom pom around in your hands, trimming off any pieces of yarn that are longer than the rest.

STEP 4 | Using the darning needle, thread a piece of yarn through the center knot of the pom pom and connect it to the top of the beanie. Repeat a few more times, weaving the needle through different points on the beanie. Knot securely and cut off the excess yarn.

And that's it! I enjoyed this simple DIY project so much that I'm currently working on beanie #2 using an ultra soft, chocolate brown yarn.

What will you create this year?