a quilting circle is such a lost art. And it signified trust. It was normal for everyone to work on your quilt, add their stitches. It was giving, socializing, a party, just all around a good time. As a child i would sit at these circles, and an elderly lady would come behind and take out all my stitches, HA! I have just layered a quilt, and will again be trying to convince my elddest to sit and stitch with me.
I have no suggestion for thimbles. I can't stand them, they don't let me feel anything.
Oh, rambling on LOL.. Welcome to the Board from Tennessee!