From a beginner, to beginners...

So going on 3 months now of learning to use a straight, and having watched pretty much every online video I could possibly find, I'm beginning to realize that the #1 key to using a straight is knowing your own face. Not strops or CrOX or type of razor or even lathering... what works for Lynn or for anyone else on this board will be different from you. Based upon your hair type and hair direction, you have to tailor specifically to your own face. A guy shaving 30 years with a straight can tell you something, but it could be totally wrong if your face is different. Even things like how my arms bend or how I can best stretch my face are critical factors in getting a good shave.

So... bottom line is that the videos are great for starting, but the only real way to learn is through experimentation and figuring out the best way to shave YOUR face. Once you figure out your face and hair patterns, the rest is just icing on the cake.