Welcome to the forum, Roy. Once a modeler,always a modeler.
A company called "Micro Mark" may have some tools that can hold parts with alligator clips. I have seen them advertised before, they're telescoping boom arms with an alligator clip at the end.
The only mask I've used is Micro Scale's "Liquid Mask." It goes on with a brush, but it dries almost clear, sometimes making it difficult to see.
Hope this helps.
Have fun & enjoy the forum !