No reason you can't quilt in your lap. I usually use a hoop as it helps me find where I was working a little more quickly. As to needles and thread...use a thread specifically for 'hand quilting'. There are a number of brands out there and Joanns carries a pretty reasonable selection. Typical needles used are quilting 'betweens'. The smaller the number, the bigger the needle. I love Roxanne #11 and #12 but, again, there are any number of brands out there. Good luck and enjoy the process.