I use both a Roxanne thimble and the leather thimbles with the coins and the dots. I also use a finger cot on my needling finger. You get them at walgreens and walmart or staples. it keeps the needle from sliding on the skin. Love that you hand quilt, I do as much as my achinbg hands can do. Pace yourself. Flex your fingers. I also founs=d a product called Crack it I think it is for the annoying cracked fingers. It stings when put on at night but it works. Good Luck