Excess solder removal

What is the best tool or method to remove excess solder from the
little cracks and crevasses of a metal bead, or to remove solder
that has been accidentally dropped on a flat or curved surface? I
work with brass, copper and sometimes silver. I have a lot of
attachments for my flex shaft, including the stainless steel and
brass brushes, grinder heads, burs, sandpaper discs, etc. but I just
don’t know what to reach for when I am trying to get into the small
areas. I am learning to use wire solder now, and so far that has been
a disaster of blobs and smears, so it has become more of a job than
ever to clean up my pieces. Many of my attempts result in scratches
which are difficult in themselves to remove. I appreciate your help.

Jackie Richards