I don't know if you can find them anymore, but Clover made a leather thimble with a mesh on the side that goes side to side. It is wonderful. If you find somewhere to buy one, also please pm me and let me know. I could use a new one and can't find them here in Maine.
I quilt from right to left or on an angle if it is a big piece. I put my left hand under the quilt and let the needle come to my finger and then up. On my right hand, I put the thimble on my middle finger and push from there but I put the needle in with my thumb and index finger before pushing.
Originally Posted by dgreen
thanks everyone. I think the trouble I'm having is with the thimble. I used a metal thimble with the raised ridge around the top, on my middle finger, and was using the tip of the finger to rock the needle. It causes me to make a "crab claw" type of shape with my hand, and that was what was cramping. Maybe if I try using the side of the thimble it would be better?