thimble

I never used to know what a thimble was for... They always seemed to include one in sewing kits and I couldn't see why you would want a lumpy thing not properly fitting over your finger whilst trying to sew....

However I've been working on this slightly different version of a ruff, with loads of layers of fabric really tightly wedged together, I've bent two needles, I tried using pliers to pull the needle through, I pierced my thumb trying to push the needle through, and then I was resorting to using a book instead of my thumb... when suddenly it dawned on me .... that's what a thimble is for.... I've been sewing for years, I can't believe I've only just figured it out... if I had half a brain I'd be dangerous...