Welcome. I find that the tension I hold the strop taught with has a direct effect on the pressure I use while stropping. I try to keep the strop just tight enough that is doesn't sag but not so tight that I put pressure on the blade. Slow and steady is good. The shaves get even better. I think it is probably better to have someone else sharpen your razors in the beginning. Razor storage is kind of a variable. It depends on humidity amongst other factors. I use oil or wax on my blades f they are not being used this week. I also wrap them in anti corrosion paper. I also live in a marine environment. Silica gel packs are in all my storage boxes.