This is how I cross stitch: I am frequently asked about how I stitch, what I use, and how I achieve the sharp and defined crosses in my pieces.
I am stitching using Soie Surfine with a #12 short tapestry point beading needle on Legacy Linen 45 count Jersey Cream, using my original (partial, not yet complete) conversion for Cross Stitch Antiques' O Sweet Humility. You can find my partial conversion in the description for episode 57: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnmZtr_KCVs
NB: I erroneously said I was using a #10 short tapestry point beading needle at one point, I always use a #12 short tapestry point beading needle with Soie Surfine
To review on needles, I use
John James #12 short tapestry point beading needle with Soie Surfine
John James #10 short tapestry point beading needle with Soie Gobelins and Soie 100/3
Bohin 28 tapestry with Bijoux or Accentuate paired with Surfine
Getting sharp and defined crosses is all about pairing thread, needle, and count to achieve the look. This is discussed briefly in this video, but at greater length in the Specialty Thread Tutorial part I: https://www.youtube.com/watch?index=7&list=PLiDWYTP60Tccq-ISmKcqHvrhxcQ76ft5k&t=2595s&v=F3QVmH2XgPQ
I stitch in hand but with care to minimize distortion - using poke and stab instead of the sewing method really helps - and wet block after finishing to eliminate distortion
I do recommend using a hoop generally, and the hoop I have is a Hardwicke Manor oval, 6 x 3.5". They can be ordered from Needle in a Haystack, or any LNS: http://www.needlestack.com/WebStore/Accessories/Hoops.html
You can find my tutorial on blocking, #8 in the Simple Harmony series, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdvdEkuXSls&t=843s
When block stitching, I always stitch a single leg, then return to cross them in a row as I think it helps tension the thread and leads to neater stitches, but that, like everything else, is personal preference
My most used pair of scissors are from the late M. Roulot, but I also highly recommend the curved tip scissors made by The Scissorist. I purchased mine at the Attic but they are available from many needlework stores.
I use the Cuyana travel jewelry case as a stitching case: https://cuyana.com/products/jewelry-case?variant=44388551688507
When traveling I always take my Daylight Foldi Go lamp for extra light, but at home I don't need extra lighting or magnification. I use readers at night to reduce eye strain, but do not use a magnifier. My mother uses the Daylight Halo Go magnifier and strongly recommends it.
I generally start my threads with a pin stitch - important points: pierce the thread from both sides, and clip as close as possible at the base of the thread - and end by taking my needle under my stitches on the back of the fabric in multiple directions.