Quote Originally Posted by tseppish View Post
Aha! This is exactly the kind of wisdom I look for! I will definitely not try it on my new Griffon. I was also wondering if there is a need to protect the spine when using a pasted strop? I am hoping the edge won't start to dull for some time.
No need to tape the spine if using a pasted strop. You won't put any wear on the spine.

Taping is a very contentious issue. There are many for and against it with just as many reasons to justify their position. I prefer not to use tape at all but will do so for spines that have gold or elaborate decorations on them. Also, for wedge or near wedge razors, tape can greatly cut down on the honing time required.

When you are new to straight shaving, it is very easy to dull a freshly ready edge via poor technique or improper stroping. Make sure to keep the spine of the razor while shaving no more than one (max two) spine widths away from your face. When stropping go very slowly and focus on finishing your stroke in one direction before flipping the razor over and ALWAYS keep the spine in contact with the strop. These two areas are where most beginners will prematurely dull their edges.