How to Knit a Pom-Pom Beanie with Ribbed Earflaps122

Introduction:
A pom-pom beanie with ribbed earflaps is a stylish and practical winter accessory that can keep your head and ears warm during the cold months. This step-by-step tutorial will guide you through the knitting process, from casting on to adding the pom-pom. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced knitter, this beanie is a great project to make for yourself or as a gift.

Materials You'll Need:
Worsted weight yarn (about 200 yards)
Size US 8 (5.0 mm) knitting needles
Tapestry needle
Large-toothed comb
Scissors
Faux fur pom-pom (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:Step 1: Cast On
Cast on 96 stitches using the long-tail cast-on method.
Step 2: Knit 1x1 Ribbing
Knit 1, purl 1 across all rows for 3 inches.
Step 3: Divide for Earflaps
Place a marker after the first 24 stitches. Knit 24 stitches, place a marker, knit 48 stitches, place a marker, and knit the remaining 24 stitches.
Step 4: Work Earflaps
Knit all stitches in the first and third sections. In the second and fourth sections, knit the first and last 5 stitches and purl the middle stitches. Repeat for 5 inches.
Step 5: Split for Crown
Cut the yarn and leave a long tail for sewing. Thread the tapestry needle with the tail and weave it through the first and last 12 stitches of the center section. Pull to cinch the crown.
Step 6: Knit Crown
Join the yarn and knit all stitches around in the round. Knit 2 together at the beginning of every row until there are 12 stitches remaining.
Step 7: Close Crown
Cut the yarn and thread it through the remaining stitches. Pull to cinch the crown closed.
Step 8: Sew Earflaps
Fold the earflaps up and sew them to the inside of the beanie, overlapping the raw edges.
Step 9: Make Pom-Pom (Optional)
Cut a piece of yarn about 12 inches long. Wrap it around the fingers of one hand about 50 times. Cut the yarn on one end and thread it through the loops on the other end. Tighten the yarn and remove it from your fingers. Trim the pom-pom to shape.
Step 10: Attach Pom-Pom
Sew the pom-pom to the top of the beanie.
Congratulations! You have now completed your pom-pom beanie with ribbed earflaps. Enjoy wearing your warm and stylish winter accessory!