Thread: thimble thimble whos got the thimble

While I don't do hand quilting, I use an inexpensive, metal thimble for all hand sewing such as sewing on binding and labels. I had to learn to use a thimble when I took Home Ec. decades ago. I remember that it took me forever to enjoy using a thimble. Now I can't sew without one. Find a thimble you like and use it. One day, using a thimble will be easy.

Hi Sophia
The first thimble I was able to use successfully was a Comfort Thimble - it is soft and flexible with a big slanted tip and lots of deep dimples - it worked pretty well. Also, I watched a tailor do a lot of mending - and something about that combination clicked for me. I assume your thimble has the outer ridge and deep dimples - so you have the right type. A quick you tube search turned up Jo Gibson - Lesson #4 big stitch quilting. She is using perle cotton but the idea is still the same. Also she uses a hoop and rubber finger to grip the needle, which I find extremely helpful. Alex Anderson uses a thimble on her index finger and ( I think) grips the needle with her middle finger and thumb. While that looks miserably inefficient to me, it would be hard to argue with someone who does beautiful work and is the head of a quilting empire. I am sympathetic to your challenge. I have never been able to make even stitches with my thumb or right hand. Just keep trying and look for a you tube demo that makes sense to you - or maybe even a live human that hand quilts - that would work too.
Lefty - in Philly

Thank you all for the information and help yes I see that Alex Anderson uses her pointer finger I have ordered some of the finger pads made of leather and I am still trying each day to get use to the thimble from clover I am determined not to let this stop me. I love this board and all you ladies thank you

I too have the thimble problem. No matter which finger I have it on I use the other. I found a thick quality packaging tape like duck brand works well. Just like having a thick skin on your finger and I can get a LOT of thimbles out of that roll.

I don't often use a thimble, but sometimes my finger gets so sore that I have to. For some reason I seem to hit the same place on my middle finger and that really hurts. I also seem to hit the same hole when I'm trying to back stitch and that splits the thread. I wish I could get used to using a thimble, but I can't decide which finger to put it on.
Sue

I, too, use a thimblelady thimble. Like the fact that it has the deepest dimples of any readily available; the fit; and pushing with the pad of your finger as well. Far more comfortable for me. Thimbles in general do take getting used to. Once you do, however, there is no going back.