I could never manage getting the hang of using a thimble - regardless of style - on my index finger. I use an open-ended, cone shaped metal thimble on my middle finger. It is by Thimblelady. Love this thimble. I find it much more comfortable using my middle finger as my 'pushing' finger as well as using the pad of my finger vs the tip as traditional thimbles are usually designed to be used. I, too, use a rubber fingertip on my index finger to help pull through the needle. Now, my 'under' fingers...well, that's a different story. I just keep changing which finger I use to feel the needle underneath. If I'm not doing a 'quilting marathon' to get something done, those fingers do callous over after a bit. I probably really should look into the 'Aunt Becky' tool. Just haven't taken the time to do so.