Hi Dina,
yes, you can quilt without a thimble. I think it's a matter of the technique you use. There is no wrong or right, whatever works for you is okay. I have never got used to a thimble and because I am self-taught my way of quilting is not the "regular" rocking stitch. I do single stitches, but not stab stitching. Maybe you are interested in seeing how it looks like, here you can find some pictures:

http://www.quiltingboard.com/tutoria...g-t142087.html

Enjoy your hand quilting time!

Yes . But I have long finger nails and use them .

I use a rocking stitch and could not do it without a thimble. Stab stitching would seem to take a long time. But like others have said, try different things and do what seems most natural to you. There are probably lots of good videos on youtube to get different ideas.

You can hand quilt with or without a thimble. You can get used to using a thimble. It is totally up to you and what you find comfortable and workable. I never used a thimble before quilting. I use one all the time now on my middle finger. I also quilt with my thumb and I don't use a thimble. None fit. I push the needle with my thumbnail. Do what feels right to you.

I have tried using different kinds of thimbles over the years but just can't get use to them. I hand quilt without one. I admit some times my fingers look like pin cushions but I've never drawn blood and after a day off of quilting I am back quilting again. I am just use to it. I do remember once at a quilt show someone was selling sterling silver thimbles and that particular one I tried on did feel great but at the time I was not willing to spend $65.00 for it.

Can, do, and will hand quilt without a thimble. Of course, the fingers get sore and calloused but it works for me.

You can quilt without a thimble but why? I don't want a callous on my finger and pin pricks hurt. The best thimble I have used is this one:
http://stores.delphinesquiltshop.com...ble/Detail.bok
The Clover silicone thimble is a favorite of mine too. http://www.clover-usa.com/product/27..._Grip_Thimbles I forget I have a thimble on and that's how I lose so many and have several in the bottom of my purse. LOL

Her handquilting is absolutely exquisite!

I also like the Clover silicone thimble - Clover calls it a "Protect and Grip" thimble - it has a metal top and soft sides that mold nicely to one's finger. It comes in various sizes. I think it costs $9-$10 dollars -

I prefer to hand sew with a thimble - but it did take some getting used to.

I hadn't used a thimble before I started hand quilting. I tried out several different ones,then put it on my finger and wore it all day around the house. After a couple of days,it became second nature.

Thanks for all your answers!! I feel better. Now to see if I want to hand quilt...and if I want to give the thimble another try...

Dina