Hi Moonhoney2! Welcome to the Board!
Basics: Rotary Cutter - I personally prefer the Olfa 45mm that self-closes.
Self-healing rotary cutting mat - again, I like Olfa
Acrylic rulers - 6"X12", 6"X24" are good to start with. I prefer the Omnigrip brand, they're non-slip.
Scissors - you should have one pair of GOOD scissors, that you don't use for anything but fabric! Gingher brand is awesome, I saved up & have one pair of shears & one of small ones for snipping threads. Fiscars is a less-expensive option too. Nothing wrong with those! The Ginghers just feel so good in your hand!
Pins - you need long pins for piecing. I started out using the standard glass ball head pins, but a couple of years ago I switched to flat head pins. I find them easier to use with the rulers...and my sewing machine needle can go thru' the head without breaking...ahem! :oops:
Needles - Machine - I think I have mostly Schmetz brand
Hand sewing/quilting - John James brand (quilt shops carry)
Thread - I use Coats & Clark's Dual Duty mostly, also have some neat polyesters from Superior Threads, and Gutterman...
Anyone else? Can't think of what else to add!
Most of these can be purchased at JoAnn Fabric or WalMart or quilt shops or online. WalMart fabric is OK - just depends on what you want to do and how much disposable income you have! LOL My stash has fabric from WalMart, JoAnn's, local quilt shops, quilt show vendors....
(I don't want to scare you, but you can see most of my stash here: http://www.quiltingboard.com/posts/list/4493.page )