Here is a very simple, inexpensive way to make each stitch and stitching session more pleasant...use this four-way wand to clean and sharpen your needles. If you have acidic skin, then the wand is absolutely essential for buffing the coating off your needles to eliminate the drag (and probably the squeaking sound) of each stitch. It also works well for buffing your laying tool or getting rid of a burr.
How does the wand work to sharpen your needles? There are four sides (I don't use the roughest side) that are similar to sandpaper...from rough to very, very fine. Sharpen the point. Then use the other sides to progressively smooth the point so it goes through your fabric like butter. You won't be disappointed!
P. S. Don't forget to run your needle through the mounting fabric several times before you begin stitching to eliminate any residue that might discolor your silk as you resume stitching
By the way, when's the last time you sharpened your needles?