I have tried the leather thimble with the metal disc and was super frustrated and in February I bit the bullet and bought a metal thimble that has an opening over my nail so my finger can breathe. It was pricey..about $50.00, but I love it and can't imagine hand quilting without it. My biggest problem with hand quilting is my "receiving fingers" that are very calloused and have little prick holes in them. Also the side of my thumb on the push hand has a big callous on it. I love hand quilting and always have to have a project ready for hand work.