My name is trey and I recently took up the hobby of collecting and resotring straight razors. I used to collect and still collect and repair pocket knives and am now looking for a new hobby. I am a grad student and have taken up straight razor shaving with little ill effects so far. I find it to b an intriguing artform as opposed to a reactive motion. I am still learning to sharpen razors as at is different from KNives, but I belive I will master it with time. Anyone who can offer advise on stropping would be great though becuae I bought a cheap strop and it has two pieces. ONe is black leather that is soft on one side and has velvet on the other. The other piece is just a piece of cow hide. THey are baded to gether at the top. Can anyone tell me exactly what each is for because I think it will improve my chaving technique and help maintain my razors better. I would also like an opinion on ceramic hones and how well they work for razors.

All Advice appreciated!