If I use the paste do I need to buy a second strop for the paste or I put it on my current strop on the linen one? I currently do 40 laps on the linen and 70 on the leather.
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If I use the paste do I need to buy a second strop for the paste or I put it on my current strop on the linen one? I currently do 40 laps on the linen and 70 on the leather.
you really should get a separate strop. Once pasted it is forever pasted. Bench strop are available a a very low cost and is my preferred method for a pasted strop.
As stated a Crox pasted paddle strop is the cheapest way to maintain a razor. They are very easy to make yourself, just need a flat piece of wood (1" x 4") between 8 - 12" long with a piece of leather or balsa wood glued to it, smear some Chromium Oxide on it and you are ready to go.
As far as pressure goes when shaving, less is better/closer. Also, take your time, don't hurry! This isn't a race to see how fast you can learn, straight razor shaving has a long learning curve. Concentrate on what you are doing and don't be distracted. Enjoy the journey and Happy Shaving!
I have seen it done where you coat the inside or backside of the linen, that way you still have a clean side to go on and the leather to finish on.
That said I am with RezDog on having a separate strop though, as this negates any accidental tracking of paste onto the clean side. Just my opinion of course. Budget will dictate, but as said bench strops can be had at reasonable prices and as DoughBoy said you can always have a crack at making your own.