The Montgomery Scarf is an ideal project for the beginner knitter. Bands of garter stitch frame a simple row of eyelets on a stocking stitch background. Just enough pattern to make this visually interesting, but not enough to make it difficult.
Also, the garter stitch helps the scarf lie flat. And the Montgomery Mitts are a good project for the beginner knitter who wants to try knitting in the round, or for the experienced knitter who needs a quick knit. The mitts are worked from the cuff up.
These patterns are very simple. The most challenging part about the mitts is knitting in the round. (I confess, I still dislike knitting small rounds, all those needles poking me, arg.)