I feel real klutzy using a regular thimble, so I use stick on leather dots called : ThimblePad. They stick on to your finger, so you can place them in the exact location you need. They can be used over and over until the adhesive no longer is sticky. I place them on my magnetic pin cushion when I'm finished using it and it's right there and ready for use the next time. Also using a smaller needle is helpful.