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I was wondering does anyone use a thimble?
If yes, does it take any pressure off your hands?

I don't use a thimble because I use tapestry needles which are blunt. If you're using blunt needles, there's not really a need (that I see) for a thimble as you can't really poke yourself easily (though I have stabbed myself pretty hard with a tapestry needle before).

Plus, it's hard for me to find a thimble that's comfortable for me.

I think one of the forum members uses a leather thimble, which, if I recall correctly, she said is very comfortable and does the job well. Some people use plasters/bandaids - cheap and worth a try.

I don't wear a thimble mainly because I can't feel the needle as well.
I've never found a thimble I like (but haven't looked very hard either)
And the ones I have used, I find they get in the way more than they help so I don't use it.

I don't find regular thimbles comfortable. I have been known to stick myself with a needle (I don't think they are really that blunt) or sometimes my finger gets sore. I have a pack of Self-Adhesive Thimble-Its that work really well and keep in my sewing box where I can easily reach it. One pack lasts a long time since I don't use them very often. They are easy to use and more comfortable for me than a band-aid. And not expensive.

Carole

I wear a regular metal thimble when doing embroidery, quilting or dressmaking - in fact any sewing in hand and my hand feels naked without it - besides getting very sore. Never used it for cross stitching though guess its mostly because I use either a hoop of my floor stand and each stitch is 2 movements not 1.

I use tapestry needles but I also use a thimble. I prefer soft rubber ones like these Jelly Fingers Rubber Thimbles:

http://www.craftconn.com/Main.asp?Task= ... ctID=14988" target="_blank

I don't wear it all the time just when I'm doing tight work, or on high fabric counts with multiple threads or when I'm pushing the needle under stitches at the back ... things like that.

I only use a thimble for hand sewing and quilting.

I don't need a thimble for cross stitch, as I just use a finger nail to push the needle through the stitches to finish off.

Thank you everyone. now off to the stores. I think i am going to start with the self adhesive, and look for the jelly one too.

I've only used one when I stitch leather.

Those stick-on and jelly ones look good though.

Do the Jelly ones make your finger sweat?

I don't wear a thimble, I couldn't see myself being able to feel around my work with one one, but I know it's a matter of being used to it.

I do poke myself quite a bit, but mostly I hurt my fingers pushing the needle through the fabric and it eventually starts making a sore in the middle of my middle finger, and that's when I put a small piece of bandage in the area.

I've got a generally sweaty body (the things I share in the name of stitching) but have never had a problem with my fingers sweating in the jelly thimble. It's just light and conforms roughly to the shape of my thumb or finger. And they're cheap and come in gorgeous colours.

I started using a thimble about 12 years ago when I was quilting. It took me some time to get adjusted to.