For me face lathering was fine with a DE but not for a straight. I discovered the bowl and haven't looked back. Here are Mantic's videos on lathering. Very instructive IME.

I had to gradually develop my technique of stretching the skin and figure out blade angle depending on where I was on the map. Figuring out different directions of stretching and plans of attack came later and with it improved shaves. I'm still learning.