I just learned to use a regular thimble many years ago. I never think about it except to grab one every time I do hand sewing, even a few stitches. I see videos of people stitching without a thimble and shudder. My poor hands would be raw meat! The little hand quilting I've done absolutely required a second thimble on the left hand to protect that finger, too, but it was a different style from my regular metal one. I must be tender, like the princess who felt the pea through 20 mattresses, LOL.