Not being a very proficient knitter, I chose scarves which were simpler. My first project, (eons ago at thirteen) after mastering the knit and purl stitch was a 'basket-weave' scarf. It was red and verrrry loong! I hadn't yet learned how to 'bind off' so I just kept knitting! I got lucky, it was the 60's and long scarves were in!
If you're curious and up for a bit of reading here's an interesting site about the history of hand knitting at The Met as well as a brief article that appeared in The Post. Or, if you don't know how and want to begin your knitting journey, check out Sheep and Stitch, full of tutorials, tips, patterns and inspiration!