Good luck with the thimble. I used to do tole painting - folk art kind of stuff - and love both painting and quilting. I don't know what I would do if my hands gave out on me. I so enjoy both activities, but I think that once my right hand get repaired, it will all be much better. I had the left hand done last year and after they pinned the thumb in a few places, it all worked almost as good as before. The wonders of modern science never cease to amaze me and I thank God for it every day. I wish you luck with checking out the Grace frame - methinks you will find it very helpful, especially when you can put it away in a small area, even with a quilt on it. Good luck!