I am new to kiltmaking and am looking for a load of advice. I signed up for a kiltmaking boot camp offered by Elsie Stuehmeyer in February, and am very excited about learning from a real pro. I also want to make the most of the 5 days, so I am trying to prepare for any obstacles to my finishing the kilt. I do very little hand sewing and I tend to have tender fingers. I am almost certain I would be likely to have pain and blisters that would slow me down. I have never worn a thimble before, so I just bought two: One is a standard metal quilting thimble by Fons and Porter. The other is a foam-lined soft metal wrap around thimble sold by Singer. Any comments or recommendations

I also bought a pair of "needle pullers," which look like a pair of needle-nose pliers with plastic coated tips. Are there any other hand/finger protectors that I should consider getting before going to kilt boot camp? Also, what kind of needles do most kilt maker's recommend? I bought some wool tapestry needles, but I am not sure if I should have other needles, too. I have looked through the Art of Kiltmaking but cannot find a reference to needle size.

I have ordered an Ott Light floor lamp with magnifier to help my eyes. This will come in really handy for all kinds of things I like to do. I'm going to borrow a portable Ott Lite from my sister, too.

Does anyone have any advice about other items I should take to camp to make kiltmaking easier and so I can get the most out of it? This adventure is a big expense to me, so I don't want my tender fingers, bad eyes or anything else to spoil my special week!

Thanks for your help!