Thread: gf's starter package

An Illinois strop is a cheap way to go without sacrificing quality, as well.

For the strop like you said since you have time now since you are getting the feather. So look around see what's out there and read as much about strops as you can. The strop you picked is originally is top quality and will serve you well and if it did get torn up while your girlfriend learned to use it replacement leather and material strops piece are sold at a reasonable price

I just wanted to quickly update this thread.

So, my gf received all of her supplies weeks ago. Guess how many shaves she has given me so far. Zero. Why? I guess I drove the point home about safety a bit too deeply. After her hearing me go on and on about people on here seriously injuring themselves and refusing to use the Feather blade, she has so far also refused to touch it. So, all the stuff that I have bought has yet to be used.

Now, in an effort to get her used to using the Feather, I went and bought some water balloons for her to practice shaving on. I just wanted to ask, "Should she shave the balloon exactly as if she was going to shave my face? By that, I mean should she use just pre-shave oil as well on the balloon?"

I figure if she can shave an entire water balloon by herself without it popping then she should be able to shave me gently enough without making me bleed or killing me altogether.

Your thoughts? I just want to start getting shaved everyday.

Unless you suffer from an infirmity that keeps you from using the equipment, I suggest you give it a try. Some where around 100 shaves your skills will have leveled out. When you feel comfortable shaving yourself, you can assist her in her first hundred shaves.

At this point I would say use it yourself until she feels she is ready. It sounds dangerous to have someone reluctantly and nervously shaving you.

I'm sorry but I don't think I have the patience to use something so sharp. I have a DE shaver that I use and I ALWAYS cut myself. But it never bothers me because the blades I use are really cheap both in price and quality so the cuts are really small and not a big deal. The tools I bought her are all very expensive and that blade is the sharpest thing you can buy period. I am sure I would be headed to the ER if I attempt to use it.

She has agreed to start practicing on the balloons so that's a start. Also, her shaving bowl arrived today so that's good news as well.

I really don't think you will do yourself that much harm, and it doesn't sound like your girlfriend is that keen on the whole idea anymore. A Cheap D/E blade is still going to be sharp enough to cause some pretty good damage if used incorrectly.

BE HEADed, that pun
Don't worry, if you follow the instructions on the site, start with the cheek area etc you can safely try this hobby out, and If you dont like it then you can always go back. As for your gf it does sound like she has become reluctant, but if she has the right education and training for this stuff, and believes in it, you are just as safe as the balloons. You would probably be even better since you can give feedback, once she can safely shave a balloon or doll. Just start with the cheeks.

Jacob, You are seriously overthinking the "sharp blade to the throat" aspect of shaving. Millions upon millions of men have shaved with a straight razor. As long as you respect the blade and school yourself in the technique I think you will be fine. Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer your fear , do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy . If you can not... well maybe wet shaving is not for you and should gift your kit to a deserving newbie .Someone with larger "balloons ".