I can't use a regular thimble, but get on well with an open topped one (tailor's thimble). Using one of these, you push the needle with the side of your finger, rather than the end of it, and it's much more comfortable for me. I have big fingers, and sometimes the thimbles don't stay on all that well, so I put a small quantity of Blu tack inside, which is slightly tacky and that keeps the thimble in place.