My DMIL gave me one and said I should use one. I think it was when I wanted to learn to do crewel embroidery. I think she said to put it on my finger when I sew and just get used to the feel of it, and it just came along. I was used to it by the time I learn to quilt which was by hand. Now I can't imagine sewing anything by hand without it. I have a number of different ones. When it is hot I like a leather one I have but otherwise my fave for quilting is a metal one with raised side edges.