I use a Thimblelady thimble. It is open-ended and designed to push with the pad of your finger. Nice deep dimples to hold the needle. I have also used her needles but actually prefer Roxanne needles. I find pushing with the pad of your finger less stressful and hurtful to the hand. I've tried many, many others over the years and this is the one that works for me. And I think the stainless steel versions are reasonably priced - about $35. There are also plastic ones for about $10 which is what I started with to see if I liked the style after years of using thimbles with the ridge on the top and pushing with the top of the finger. Much more comfortable for me.