You'll need a thinble or finger pad or something. I always wear through the pads and leather thinbles. I love my clover, open top thimble. It is adjustable and very comfortable. You'll need hand quilting thread. If you use glazed cotton thread, it can also be used on the machine. The one item I couldn't be without is a hemostat. These are what the doctors use when sewing you up. I think I saw them at JoAnn's. Mine actually came from a nurse. There is also a scissor site that sells different sizes. They make pulling your needle through the fabric with several stitches much easier. They have little ridges to grasp the needle.