I have a pair of small, needle nose pliers. They stay open when not in use so when I grab the handles it closes the pliers so I'm not doing double duty. DH got them from me from one of the 'snap on' type tool sales people. Would venture you could get them at most larger hardware or tool stores. I also use the rubber finger tips sold at office supply stores. Come in a box of 10 or 12 for a couple of bucks. Depending on how difficult a needle is being I can use either just my fingers with the rubber tip or manhandle it with the pliers.