Working on small N scale parts (coupler springs, wheels, etc) often left me frustrated as I dropped them and had to search the floor for them. I discovered that my air brush cleaning pad was a great way to improve the situation. The pad is 12x11, firm foam and has a lip around the edges. That means that parts don't bounce into hiding places and they don't roll off to the floor as easy. Works great for working on small parts of any type. About $21 on Amazon but worth it for your workbench.
Paul D
N scale Washita and Santa Fe RailroadSouthern Oklahoma circa late 70's