I am a hand quilter and have been for too many years to talk about. This is what I use. sometimes I use two layers. You can get it at any drug store. Make sure it is the clear flexible. Not the paper. I use it until I wear a hole in it about 1-2 hours. I still feel the needle with this tape. I still get a mildly sore finger and once I get the callus that goes away. It is a lot less expensive than the finger pads you buy for quilting.
I have used it since it was made by Johnson and Johnson, then it was only 1/2 wide, I liked the thinner better.
http://www.drugstore.com/qxp75866_33..._x_252_in_.htm
I have an Aunt Becky too. I have taken the class and can't wait until I get the technique down, but takes practice and time.