Thread: Managed to do a complete first pass.

I've had my straight for about a week now. I followed Lynn's guide for beginners and today was able to complete a WTG pass. It isn't a close shave yet, not by any stretch. But it's amazing how much more comfortable I am with the razor's balance and handling.

I still have the lather drying up a bit, owing to my tortoise-like pace. I have to rework the lather as I move from one quadrant to another but so far, no nicks, cuts or redness.

I must say this adventure is far more exciting than my initiation into DEs a few years back. I can't wait to see what a year's worth of learning will bring.

It should bring more confidence, speed, and technique....as long as you don't bleed out first.

😁 minimizing blood loss is a major part of the plan.

Welcome KarloT to SRP: It sounds as if your off to a great start. Regarding your shaving lather. A wetter consistency works better for S.R. shaving. I used a much thicker lather for my DE shaving. Good Luck

feltspanky,

A wetter consistency is something I'm still trying to dial in. I also prefer a thicker yogurt-like texture when using a DE but that doesn't seem to work well with a straight edge.

Good job KarloT, speed will come with experience, for note just continue to work on technique. Don't worry about having to relather before finishing a pass, that too will come with experience. Just continue to take it easy and pay attention and enjoy the ride.

That is great to here of progression! Just take your time and enjoy every part of your journey!!

That is a major part of all of our plans!! lol!
Once your speed picks up the drying lather problem should cure itself, try lathering 1/2 of your face at a time to minimize that issue at first

Originally Posted by KarloT

�� minimizing blood loss is a major part of the plan.

Congrats on the success! You sound like you're in good shape following Lynn's video. I wish I had seen it before I started, instead of my finding it much later! I used a Shavette for about 8 months and have been using a true straight for about 1 week now, and in some ways it was like learning all over again, so I still feel what you're going through. I've learned the advice of so many here is very true, take your time and speed will come as you get better. Enjoy!!!

ks4el,

Thanks! Until several weeks ago, I was actually considering a Feather Artist Club more than a straight. Didn't feel like dealing with stropping and honing.

I then gave Lynn's YouTube videos a serious look and started searching for more material. In the end, I figured the learning curve might be steeper initially but the straight's payoff would be far better than a shavette's.

The blade hasn't tugged yet, so at the very least I know I haven't rolled the edge through bad stropping technique.
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