When it comes to handling a hobby knife, I'm a big chicken.

I'm terrified of them blades.

So I got me these from eBay:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Wood-Carving-Leather-Thumb-Guard-1-guard-only-finger-protector-/180772571353?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2a16e288d9

Although they're made to be worn on the thumb, I ordered two sizes so I can wear one on the thumb and anothr on the index finger.

They work very well.