i use a regular inespensive thimble under the quilt.
Best ones are found in antique or thrift shops. The old ones that are rather smooth around the top. You tap the top until it is flat and then use the edge of the thimble to help the needle underneith. It works and doesnlt appear to ware on the needle. This is the way I learned many years ago and still works despite of all the fancy stuff available.