I have a nice large quilting frame. I can only sit at it about 30 minutes then my back starts to hurt. I was trying to quilt with a hoop but was finding that awkward at times. I just tried the no frame, no hoop method and I really like it!
I do use a thimble. I have a leather one I like. I recently picked up an inexpensive "plastic" one at the quilt shop and I like it. It is like those jelly shoes that used to be popular. My problem with a metal thimble is the side rubs on my ring finger causing a wee bit of pain.