Originally Posted by ganny
Hand quilting is all I have ever done. I have always used a PVC frame. Thimbles just don't work for me. I have to feel the needle. Finally got some rubber finger tips, cut the ends off to fit my fingers and I really like them. I probably could never be fingerprinted. I have stuck my fingers so much, callused over, and filed finger tips to the point that there is probably no pattern left to my fingers. Ever so often, I would stop quilting a few days to let my fingers heal. No longer with the rubber tips.
Boy do I understand your statement. If I can I use my fingernail to quilt with, I feel I have more control that way. I also found the Nibble Thimble and the Thimble Pads are something I can also use and they're not restricting.
Butterflyblue - whatever way you choose to do it - HAVE FUN!!! Don't get over critical of yourself sit back and ENJOY!