Get some thin balloons. I bought mine at the dollar store. Cut the end (not the one you blow up) off about 1-1/2" long, and use that piece as a thimble on your finger. You can use several if you need to. I know the feeling. I would not use pliers of any kind because it will dull your needle. Another type of needle you could use is the long (6" of so) one that upholstery people use to attach the buttons. You can buy them at Joanns if you have one close. Keep the balloons handy, when one is all used up, cut another one. I have used this method for about 30 years. It is a natural thing for me to do. Also, you can try those rubber fingers you can buy at Staples. They are normally used when paging papers or money in an office. I keep them on hand too if I need them. I would try any of these. Good luck. It will be beautiful in the end. Another idea is to push several needles thru at different places from the back and then go to the front and pull them thru.