I'd like to refer to the tips regarding zip-lock bags.  I do not find them precarious at all.  I tip the contents of the bag into a suitably sized square shaped container with low sides and work with the beads from there.  Then I can tip the beads easily back into the bag using the corner of the container.  If the beads are tiny seed beads, I sometimes hold the bag over another container when tipping back into it - just in case any of the little beads decide to "do a runner" on me.

 

Another easy way to get beads back into any container is to use a funnel from the kitchen.

 

When working a herringbone or other long cord do it with a wooden toothpick up the middle. It makes the beads much clearer to see and is light to hold.

Also, mark the row where you step up with a piece of contrasting cotton and keep threading it up as you work, saves counting and mistakes and twists.
Thanks Val!

 

 

I stick a darning needle (standing up vertically) into my pin cushion.  Slip my Nymo bobbin onto the needle and pull off as much thread as I need.  The bobbin turns easily on the needle, no tangles and no chasing after escaping bobbins.