craftgrrl | Embossing on the loose.

Hello Craftsters,
Preface, I checked the memories but I didn't see anything on embossing. I'm working on a very fine project where I'm using black & red embossing powder on white paper. What is the best way to keep the negitive area free of loose embossing powder? I was advised to first rub the paper with a dryer sheet first but that doesn't seem to do much. I tried cleaning it off with a soft fine tipped paint brush and that works alright but I feel like I'm missing a better way!

Thanks in advance!