I never used a thimble until I started hand appliquing. I had sewn for years, making clothing and with the larger needles, I did not need one. Even with embroidery and cross-stitch--all needlecrafts that faded away when I started quilting--I didn't need one. Then, I tried (and fell in love with)hand applique. After trying most every thimble out there, I find I love the stick-on leather ones, simple circles that glue to the exact necessary spot on the finger. There is no weight, which I hated with the silver thimbles. There is also no bulk added. I feel like it's just my finger with protection,