We have cording

I managed to get one row of cording in beside the CB. That means only three more rows to go for both sides before starting on the eyelets. That way I can see how well it fits... Not that I'd be able to do much if it didn't fit. Mah, oh well. Really I just want to be able to put it on. All that hand sewing is rather tough on my finger. I'd use a thimble but it's so awkward. I wonder if there's anything else I could do.