I hand quilt and use a leather thimble some of the time. I'm trying to get my fingers calloused up by not using a thimble. I'm like you, I can only quilt so long before my fingers are bleeding. I've also used a leather thimble with the metal mesh coin inserted. It took me awhile to get used to this, but I do like it. Good luck getting all your quilts done so fast.
I LOVE your Avatar pic! Did you do it?