I am one that prefers Roxanne needles. Usually use a size 11 or 12 between. Get them from Colonial needle. Very good customer service, btw. I mostly use a hoop but it is not on a stand of any sort. I sit in a comfy side chair while quilting and wiggle about quite a bit changing position. I think a hoop on a lap or floor stand would just annoy me as I would need to be in a single position for a long period. I can quilt for hours as long as I can scritch around in my chair.
I use the Thimblelady thimble
http://www.thimblelady.com/search-al...atured&page=10 in the stainless steel version. I started out with the plastic to see 1) if I liked that style thimble and 2) check for size. The sizing - using the website's instructions - have been perfect. With this thimble you push with the pad of your finger, not the tip. I find it much more comfortable.
I use any old handquilting thread as long as it is the color I want. JAF sells a brand 'Americana' that is quite heavy and limited colors but I have used it. Otherwise mainly Guttermann. I also use Thread Heaven conditioner vs beeswax. I like the results much better. I even use it on glazed threads as I feel it really helps with the tangling. Mainly for keeping your thread as tangle-free as possible, don't cut lengths more than about 12-18 inches. This helps.