Just a really tiny embroidery tip today! It’s tiny. But important!

You know those dirty hoop rings that develop (especially on lighter colored fabric) around the edge of your hoop? Or the soiled look that might develop over time on embroidery that you’re working in hand, without a hoop? Much of the dirt, grime, and soiling that subtly develops on an embroidery project comes initially from your hands.

When you’re at home, you can always high-ho-hither yourself to the sink to wash your hands now and then. But if you’re traveling (as I was recently), you don’t always have the opportunity to wash your hands regularly.

Even if your hands aren’t soiled with dirt, they can still be a problem. The oil that builds up on your skin is certainly necessary for healthy skin, but it can also transfer to your fabric, and although you might not see it right away, it can become a magnet for dust and dirt, especially in the area around your hoop or frame.

When I travel – and even when I’m not traveling – I keep a small travel pack of wipes like the ones above into a zip lock bag, inside my project bag. That way, I always have something on hand to wipe my hands with. I don’t get the kind with lotion additives and the like – just plain old hand wipes will do the job.

You can also throw in a small package of tissues (Kleenex) to dry your hands on after using the wipes – though the moisture from the wipes will generally dissipate after a minute.

So, that’s my embroidery travel tip for you! Probably nothing new to veteran stitchers, but for those who haven’t thought about it, there it is!