2 Days Down...

Gentlemen,
I am now christened. Upon receiving my Dovo from Don, I've had two days of learning.
Day 1 consisted of trying to get the angle right, completing one pass WTG on my primary side, from my sideburn to my cheek. Unfortunately I removed minimal stubble and acquired a couple nicks. Prior to moving into my current standard razor, I was finally able to get the angle accurate and remove some beard. I moved to my weak side and completed the same pass.
Day 2 was planning to be a similar shave to Day 1, hoping to remove more hair and less face. After studying some more video, I took focus to my blade and got to work. I ended up completing my entire face, less the hair I wear on my chin. The only blood I acquire this evening was a bit from last night's wound and a spot on my lip. Post shave I had a light amount of redness on my lip, which has since subsided.

I believe I will stick WTG for a few more shaves until I get more comfortable managing the tool. Once that occurs, I'll start working ATG.

I'd like to say thanks to all the tips and tutorials thus far for getting me up to this point. I'm sure I'll be digging more and rehashing content I've found as I progress.

Cheers,

Jason

It is good to hear that you are getting the hang of using a straight. Something to remember about watching videos is that not every beard is the same. You might have to deviate from what someone in a video is doing to suit your beard. Still, I have learned a lot from watching videos and continue to adjust my technique.

Are you having the heirloom razor honed? It would be really cool to see you get it back in action.

Once I can free up some time, the heirloom will get honed. I am excited to shave with it as well. Agreed as well on dealing with ones own face. Having facial hair also alters the shaving patterns some. I really look forward to working ATG to get a clean smooth shave. When I get good, I may move into shaving my head too!

Sound like you're on a good path. Keep your concentration up and your angles down.

Congrats on the shaves!

Two further pieces of advice:

1. Along with your angle, mind your pressure as well. You really do just need enough to keep the blade on your skin.
2. Concerning pattern, one idea to try would be don't shave for a few days and really map out the direction of your beard growth. That will give you a better idea of truly going WTG, XTG and ATG while shaving.

Good luck and keep on like you are... the learning curve is there but not too steep! :)