Thimble shopping

My poor thumb is killing me from hand quilting and I'm in need of thumb protection. I have tried band aids, medical tape, and new skin. Nothing seems to work. I have big knuckles and arthritic thumbs. To the Internet I go to figure this one out.

If there was a needle to use that wasn't skin piercing for hand quilting, then problem solved. But I don't think that will happen...so the search begins. Sharp needles are a must since it must go through three layers. I am using betweens and I strongly recommend them because of the shape.

American Woodworking had an idea posted for using latex covered work gloves and cutting the tips off. I want something that feels natural since I prefer to quilt bare handed but right now I have no calluses. Of course, calluses will build if allowed, but who wants those?

After checking out the gloves, I believe a needle would go right through..a bandaid would work better. So it's time for thimble shopping. No more goofing around!

I found several thimbles. I brought a plastic, metal and leather one. I prefer the feel of the leather one. But the metal one does a better job at making smaller stitches. So you might want to consider many options. I am going to try out the plastic one later. It takes time getting used to using a thimble. No matter which kind you choose, make sure it fits well. It should fit snugly so that it doesn't slip a lot.

As for my shopping experience, Walmart didn't have anything. Neither did my local quilt shop. I had to visit a larger quilt shop, and an auction. I lucked out and found some vintage seeing notions that included several thimbles.