I have very dry hands. In the past i have tried every kind of lotion, and even parrafin treatments. My knuckles would split open, and my fingertips would crack.
I now have found soething that totally keeps my hands soft and healed. it is the hand lotion that Aveda makes. it is all natural and it smells very clean. I use it at night, and after doing dishes. I would not put it on right before sewing though. As long as you do not go crazy with it, it soaks right into your skin, and heals it immediately without stinging.
The other trick that does work is to put heavy hand cream or vaseline on your hands over night with cotton gloves on. When you get up the next day, all you have to do is wash your hands of there is any residue. they will stay soft and pretty all day.