If you are using yarn or all the strands of embroidery floss you could use a leather needle or a sail maker's needle. I would inquire at a saddle shop ot an upholester's if you have trouble locating these specialized needles. Either way you may want to get the leather hand deal (can't remember the name - it's sort of like a half glove) that they use with these instead of a thimble. That way you have your whole hand to push the needle through, not just a finger. The leather protects the palm of your hand and you push the needle with your palm. It's worked for hundreds or thousands of years and it still works very well. Tandy Leather might sell everything you need.