The “carriage” part that slides in the outer frame is heavy, Mike. The counterweight makes it easier to move up and down (like how an elevator works). It also serves to keep the easel more stable–the counterweight takes the strain off the hardware that would otherwise be the sole mechanism for holding the carriage at the desired height.

This is a good suggestion, James.

Shellac is a very common and traditional wood finish. It is made from secretions of the lac bug (Kerria Lacca). It comes prepared like Mr. Jamieson used or in dry flakes which the user dissolves in alcohol. I would be surprised if it didn’t exist in Spain, although I don’t know what it is called in Spanish, perhaps “lacca”. If you can talk to a cabinet maker or furniture refinisher I am sure he will know about it and where to get some.
Regards,
James McGinnis

Maarten, draw what you’re seeing. No organic creature is perfectly symmetrical or rectilinear. Subtle departures from vertical, horizontal, perpendicular and parallel are what make a portrait look natural and more fully capture the likeness of an individual. Just be careful. If you overdo it, your attempt at accuracy will look like a drawing error.

would it be possible to show the portrait of Jenny on YouTube in slow motion, so we can copy and learn/practice more?

I have been using Strathmore 400 toned gray too, very difficult after erasing very carefully with the kneaded eraser. It wouldn’t hold much grafite anymore, resulted in dots on the cheeck.

I can’t tell the date of this entry. What week (date) is the solids kits expected?