needlework?

Question

how to start a new project and the tools and supplies needed

Answer 1

What kind of needlework? There is sewing, quilting, embroidery, knitting, crocheting...?

Answer 2

Without knowing the specific needlework ("needlework" isn't just one thing), I'd say first "read the directions". Then imagine doing the project. If you haven't already, read some general directions for the specific craft too.

The supply list for a knitted wool scarf might be wool and knitting needles. You may also need scissors and a ruler and safety pins or stitch markers and even a steam iron, pressing cloth and ironing board before you're through. Some people also copy the directions onto file cards, corner-punch them and assemble them with a key ring or yarn loop, to keep track of where they are on a pattern.

The basic supplies for multi-colored charted counted-xstitch are chart, thread, tapestry needle, scissors. Optionals include, but are not limited to: stitching frame or hoop, needle-threader, magnifying glasses, concentrated light source, chart-holder, markers for chart progress, thimble, needle-gripper, sharp needle for finishing, thread holders to be marked with chart symbols, needleroll and/or pin cushion, needlecase. You'll need 1 needle. You may prefer to have one for each color.

"Needlework" in English isn't just work with threaded needles. It also includes knitting (tools are called pins or sticks in other languages, but "needles" in English) and crochet with hooks ... and tambour work which is chainstitch embroidery accomplished with a hook rather than a needle. Netting and tatting and macramé is also lumped in with needlework occasionally.