I always thought I couldn't use a thimble either, but I persevered. Made myself use it, now I cant get along without it. Not a regular thimble however. Its the finger cut off a rubber glove with a small piece of leather inside. Looks weird, but works for me. That is on my middle finger. On my index finger, I use a finger cote. (sp?) Helps to pull the needle thru. Not sure how I manage to not prick my "under" finger.