Humor will not be tolerated!! -Portia

So, normally I'd ask on Facebook for this, but as it's for my brother who follows me on Facebook, I can't.

I'm making Brother a beard hat. I've already crocheted the hat and the beard/mustache. However, I'd really like the beard part to be detachable so it's not just a gag gift. (The hat really is a nice hat.) I'm trying to decide the best way to attach it. I want something that will leave the hat wearable and comfortable when the beard isn't attached. So buttons are out. I don't want to leave buttonholes nor a button inside the hat. I've considered snaps. My mom suggested a hook, with the hook on the beard side. I worry that maybe that's not sturdy enough if someone gives it a good tug. I'm fine with it popping off, but I don't want it to bend the hook and make it not wearable in future.

Ideas?

Can you just put the buttons on the outside of the hat? Of course, it depends on what kind of hat it is, but I figger that if it's a beanie kind of thing, then buttons on the ear flaps (I hope it has ear flaps) would not be out of place.

Safety pins.

I think if you put 2 hooks/loops on each side, I would think it would be strong enough. Also, it's not too tough to replace a hook if it does get damaged.

You can share your post with everyone but your family on Facebook, FWIW.

Gio: No ear flaps. Sadly. But I don't think he'd wear ear flaps.
Katya: Except then I'd have to expect him to know where to hook it on again and actually do it. I'm not sure I want to expect that.
II: I considered that. But I hate mending. With a burning fiery passion. I need to get over that.
Portia: But i'm also friends with his former roommate and good friend. And I don't trust his secrecy.

I ended up just buying snaps. We'll see how long it takes me to actually sew them on. :S He's going to Samoa the day after Christmas, so I don't think he *needs* a hat right away.