I tend to have rough hands, either from house construction, wiring, gardening, whatever. When I stitch, silk and sometimes metallics catch on the tiniest of rough spots, mucking up my strands, making a mess, and being a general nuisance.
I do what I can. I put lotion on at night (Aveeno is one of my faves) and throughout the day. I’ve even worn socks to bed after applying greasier lotions. In an effort to keep my fabrics and fibers grease- and grime-free, I wash my hands, but don’t put anything on them prior to stitching.
I’ve used Udder Cream in the past. It’s supposed to be greaseless, but I was never convinced it didn’t leave a residue.
Do any of you have suggestions? We’re both gardening and doing house construction. I wish I could get a bunch of product samples so that I could compare them.
Categories: Needlework
Have you ever thought of trying a hot paraffin bath? They don’t have to cost much to get a home version. The paraffin softens hands and helps with relieve any pain that might come from stitching or fine carpentry work (it might also be a welcome in an Alaskan winter when you need to get the chill out of you bones). It doesn’t leave your hands waxy or greasy. Even my kids like to use it (and they’re pre-adolescent boys).
The OT concurs. Paraffin is great. You’ll still want a lotion. I have found Eucerin to be one of the best. It’s a bit more expensive, but worth it. When I worked in the hospital (two minute scrubs with nasty stuff between patients) I indulged in Aveda’s Hand relief cream. I don’t know if they still make it, but it’s incredible.
Oooooo. Sounds like a home paraffin bath needs to go on my birthday wish list. My mother has one, but I’ve never seen her use it. Thanks for the suggestion!
I think Eucerin was what I used under socks!