I have a hard time using a thimble. When I hand quilt I will push the needle with my fingernail. I finally semi-trained myself to use the open ended thimbles (TJ Lane) but I am very unorthodox. I start my quilting stitch then I slip the thimble on my index finger and load up the needle that way. Constantly slipping it on and off my finger is very time consuming so I will use my nail until I drill hole through it and I am forced to use the thimble.
I would like to learn how to use one in the traditional way for when I hand sew bindings and do hand applique. I have poked myself several times doing that.