Spend an hour or so each evening on the creative art of embroidery. The name embroidery and crewel are used interchangeably. A No. 10 or 12 sharp needle is also excellent, although is a tad difficult to thread. Chenille needles are used for ribbon or wool embroidery. Buy the sharpest and best you can find.
Cheap needles tarnish and bend.
Dull needles will not pierce the fabric easily, and cause frustration. Bent needles will give you imprecise movements. Stitches If you are new to embroidery, practice all stitches on a scrap piece of cloth. They are not difficult, but do take a little patience. Once mastered, you will wonder why you have not done this before.