Richard's Process Information

I notice Richard pulls the tape off at the end of several of his demos. I usually just paint all the way to the edge, is there a reason for using the tape?

Also, I am very intrigued by the palette positioning right next to the painting. Very convenient, but I have not figured out a way to do this with my wood palette. Is this an actual palette clamped in some way to the easel, or is he putting the paint directly on the backer board of the easel (where the painting sits)?

I do like the idea of having the same light on my palette as is on the painting, but I've clipped my palette to the easel and it keeps slipping down or back.

Thanks!