If you are rolling the razor on the leather pad, when you use the chromium oxide and diamond sprays your really going to create a problem with the edge. I have a paddle strop and it should be easier to use then a regular strop for a beginner. If Lynn sold you the razor it was honed and ready to go. You should not have to use chromium oxide or diamond spray for weeks unless the edge is rounded in stropping. I would suggest you watch Lynn's video on stropping using the modular strop. You will notice he angles the paddle a little toward him. I find that really helps to keep the blade flat on the paddle. I also find that stropping with the razor angled, heal first at about a 30 degree angle also helps keep the blade flat. Try stropping using a butter knife and watch to see the best way to keep the blade flat then try with your razor. It's amazing how fast you can take an edge off by just a little lifting or rolling the blade.