I rarely use a hoop, even on a large quilt.I have been known to use the Q Snap frame but usually just to decide where to quilt and as a place to lay it, not to stretch it around the PVC pipes. I always use a thimble because your finger is going to get sore without it, and I always use the under button type thimble on the under finger to avoid really sore fingers. There is nothing worse than getting sore fingers--then you can't quilt until they are better. I am not traditional with the itty bitty quilting betweens. I use a #7 or #8 between which is a bigger needle, and almost gives you the size stitches you want. I have also used straw needles, but they bend a bit if really loaded with stitches. So use what you are comfortable with. I can think of nobody that is going to ask what size needle you used.