There are three specific styles of needle that I use in bead embroidery, and one that's a useful afterthought.

Bead embroidery needles have a smooth sharp point and a narrow eye. I keep sizes 10 and 12 on hand, but almost always default to size 12, as this size will fit through even very small beads. They are designed for beading through mid-weight materials such as non-woven interfacing (most weights), lightweight leather and Ultrasuede.

Traditional embroidery needles are designed for fibers and thus have a slightly wider eye, but will fit through most Japanese size 15 seed beads. The great news about this style of needle is that it's widely available, usually in an assortment, in most fabric stores and needle work stores. These needles will pass through most fabrics, almost all non-woven and light to mid-weight leathers.

Gloving needles have a chiseled point and are the ultimate bead embroidery tool. The eye is short and small, so they can be difficult to thread. Size B nylon, FireLine, and most polyester sewing threads will fit through the eye. This needle is a must-have if you are working directly on leather or deerskin. For larger beads, switch up to a size 10 glover if possible.

One last needle should be in your collection, a size 13 beading needle. This needle will pass through almost all non-wovens, but it is delicate and will bend or break if you put too much pressure on it. This size needle will fit through almost any bead. I recommend using small pliers to gently push it through and then pull it out of the opposite side.