I have tried using different kinds of thimbles over the years but just can't get use to them. I hand quilt without one. I admit some times my fingers look like pin cushions but I've never drawn blood and after a day off of quilting I am back quilting again. I am just use to it. I do remember once at a quilt show someone was selling sterling silver thimbles and that particular one I tried on did feel great but at the time I was not willing to spend $65.00 for it.