They are sharp, medium-length hand needles used primarily for embroidering.
The art of hand embroidering goes back centuries, and while some of the embroidery supplies have changed, the craft itself hasn't.
In general, there are two types of cotton thread or floss used for hand embroidering.
Victorian Cottage Treasures has everything for embroidering including beginner starter kits.
Secrets of Embroidery -- Find everything from designs to helpful hints for embroidering successfully.