The first thing to check if it won't idle is the idle cut-off solinoid on the side of the carb.  Today's gas seems to start turning to varnish and gumming things up in just a few weeks.  If the idle cut-off is stuck closed, it won't idle.  Make sure it clicks when you put power to it.  Even if it clicks, it might not be a bad idea to pull it out and give it a good shot of spray carb cleaner.

Sounds like you are needing to choke it to get it run, which means lake of fuel to the intake. Zen's suggestion about the Idle Cut-off Solenoid is spot on for one that won't idle. I would also check the carb and blow out all the passage ways. The other things that you might ought to check are the fuel filter and fuel pump, it could just be that the carb isn't getting enough fuel!

What is the status of the carb? Did you use the proper fuel pump push rod for your fuel pump? Too short and it won't hardly pump.

The fact that in runs with the hand shows that the ignition is close enough that it should at least run rough for long enough to warm it up and tune it in.

Leaky stuff like manifold to heads,  the rubber boots. How the carb seats to the manifold.  I never got my carb to idle.  I was just able. To slow how long the engine would run until I had to tap the gas pedal.  If you can start the engine, give it rev...  Jump Out the front seat.  Run to the back of the bug and. Flick the throttle. Before. It dies.  Your doing well..   Sc

thanks for all the suggestions.  I have an electric fuel pump set up near the gas tank something like 2psi.  when i was rebuilding it my old pump used the longer or shorter rod i forget so now it is electric.  it pumps a steady flow of gas out of the hose when not attached to carb.  The carb is a bocar that was put on the car and used for 500 miles or so and then sat for 5-6 years till i decided to revive (hopefully) my bug. i rebuilt the carb myself and put a new shut off solenoid on it. I will check for the click.  intake boots are new, all vacuum lines are plugged i believe.  will check the carb to intake gasket.  i will also have to check the screw mentioned on the right side of the carb.  i may also find a shop to professionally rebuild the carb as it sat a long time and i am not confident of my rebuild.