I was self taught years before the internet for guidance. I used what I had, and found that a beading needle worked great...it has just enough flex in it to work for me. I have tried other needles over the years, and always go back to the beading needle. I find the regular applique needles are just too short for me to get used to.
Another tip..when pulling your thread though to the top of the fabric, place your thumb on top of thread as it is coming through..you will rarely get a knot or tangle this way.