Thread: I'm all thumbs

I've used my st8 now a few times, just from the top of the ear to jaw. I was actually able to get a pretty close shave out of it this time but MAN it's awkward. I'm using right hand to shave left cheek and left for right cheek. Between my glasses and everything I can hardly see what I'm doing in the mirror.

I think I've seen folks using right on right and the opposite to pull the skin up near the ear. I guess I just have to take it slow and make it work but it feels pretty strange.
Doug

Yep.....take it slow!
A million and one ways to shave, but only you will know what works for you.
You'll find your comfort zone in what you find is easiest for you to use.
Not a race...... Enjoy the adventure!

Yes, it can be handy to learn to shave with either hand with a straight razor. Yes, you have to be patient and go slow but eventually it will feel natural.

Bob

It can be tough. I have typically used my right (dominant hand) for everything. Trying to get the left down to aid in a couple spots that i don't get as close of a shave. You'll get it. Try mock shaving with a butter knife to gain some dexterity and pattern out your face based on growth patterns

Wait you are using the right to shave the left side and the left to shave the right side?
That seems backwards to me, but then I use my right to shave both sides because I wouldnt trust my left hand to cut a steak let alone my whiskers. (Its evil and has a mind of its own)

Just take your time, because we all felt awkward when we first started. Mock shaves will help. I use right on right, and left on left, but everyone is differant, so what works for you just stay with it!!

First off, yes.... take your time, no rushing allowed... and to be on the safe side, keep a recent picture of yourself, for the plastic surgeon. (only kidding, after all.... chicks dig scars).

I used to be a one handed shaver.... the Feather DX let me get away with a limp wrist stroke, not so with traditional straights, so I learned to use my off hand. I wear glasses, but I take them off for shaving and step back a 1/2 step to have a blurry view of my face. Right hand does right side of face, left hand does left side of face... always trying to keep my hand on the razor on the opposite side of it vs. the face. It takes a long time to get comfortable with your off hand, I'm still not as good as I am with my right hand so the neck and chin area all get done with my strong hand, even the left of center stuff.

One stroke that is a bit different for some is the back hand stroke.... if you view a typical barbers straight shave of a customer, you will see them use that stroke frequently as it's the only way to get it done. Trying to shave your left side with your right hand is awfully hard as you are contorting your arm, turning your head etc. and naturally it's the same on the right side with your left hand. BUT, the main thing is a confident stroke of the razor... no hesitation, no shaking.... just a nice, smooth, light stroke at the correct angle and all is well.

So, take your time and occasionally, try something new to see if it feels better to you.... If it feels wrong, don't do it.

Regards

Christian

I remember shaking when I first tried the straight. For some reason I was better at it with the left hand, although I'm a righty. You'll get better with time. Now I can shave everything with either hand.

Originally Posted by Slugger

I've used my st8 now a few times, just from the top of the ear to jaw. I was actually able to get a pretty close shave out of it this time but MAN it's awkward. I'm using right hand to shave left cheek and left for right cheek. Between my glasses and everything I can hardly see what I'm doing in the mirror.

I think I've seen folks using right on right and the opposite to pull the skin up near the ear. I guess I just have to take it slow and make it work but it feels pretty strange.
Doug

If you are going WTG (with the grain) try using your left hand to shave your left cheek and your right hand to shave the right cheek. When you go ATG (against the grain) just reverse it and use your right hand to shave the left side and your left hand to shave the right side. This way nothing should block your field of view. I've been doing it this way for over 40 years.

Yeah Kaptain I'll keep that picture handy! Just about spit my coffee on that one! My shave foo is still very weak.

I tried popping some hair on the blade as a sharpness test and it didn't do much. I received this blade "shave ready" and now I'm wondering if it needs a good stropping as it doesn't seem to be sharp enough? I need to take a closer look at the edge.

Thanks for everyone's guidance!
Doug