Sharp-pointed needles for embroidery and general sewing, in packs covering sizes 1 to 10. For counted work on aida you want a blunt tip instead - see cross stitch needles or tapestry needles.
Embroidery needles - also sold as crewel needles - have a sharp point that pierces the fabric weave, which is what surface embroidery needs and exactly what counted cross stitch does not. The number runs opposite to the size: 1 is the largest, 10 the finest.
The multipacks are the practical buy - a size 3-9 or 5-10 pack covers most thread weights, from full six-strand cotton in the low numbers to fine single-strand detail in the high ones. DMC's gold-plated packs resist tarnish and pull through fabric a little more smoothly.
