I don't know how long you have been straight razor shaving but starting from square one
this post by Lynn might be helpful. I used a DE for the tough places for a couple of weeks before I put it away for good. It took me awhile to figure out my facial map and how to manipulate the razor in different directions but it came with time.
Having a truly shave ready razor is important too. The previous DE experience gave me the advantage of having the prep and multiple pass learning curve behind me. It was just a matter of patience and persistence in developing my skills with the straight and I am still learning after a year of shaving daily exclusively with a straight.