Start my Beanie

[KatieG]

I am new to knitting and I want to practice making a beanie. I think I have mastered the basic stitch and my question is, how do I determine the size of my beanie? Do I measure my head and then measure out an amount of yarn? Do I cast on a number determined by my head size and the size of the needles? What is the formula for determining the start of my beanie?
Thanks for your help
KatieG

[suzeeq]

Measure your head and subtract a couple of inches because hats are stretchy so if you make one the same size, it'll be too large. Then you have to figure out your sts per inch with the yarn and needles you want to use and multiply it times the finished measurement. Here's a basic hat recipe that will walk you through the 'formula' you need.

[KatieG]

Thank you Sue. I think I can work with this formula.
KatieG