Thread: a basic question

okay folks - I am totally new to this, I just had my first straight razor shave last Friday at a local barber shop - I LOVE IT - I am totally hooked on it already - problem is I have just started looking around and found this site (yes it is an awesome site indeed) so my question is this. Being as unskilled as I am with using a straight razor blade to shave with - upon obtaining a new straight razor blade for my use would a good test of skill to be to blow up a balloon, cover it with shaving cream and attempt to "shave the balloon" without popping it?

What do you think???

I believe that is mostly intended for those that want to learn to shave another person. For shaving yourself, just do what I did. I practiced on myself. Worst case scenario, you get a few nicks and cuts. But I figure hey, big deal, I heal up just fine.

Drew

Welcome
Barber students used that always to learn how to shave. ( it helps learn shave others more then yourself)I think it will help you but real learning will come when you start to shave. it is kinda your mucsle memory gets learning and later on you will be great sr shaver. read this great side and ask questions . You will learn very fast.

LOOK OUT !! IT'S A TRAP !!!

(just kidding)

Welcome, jcash1, I don't think that it is a very useful test, but you will probably get more and better input than mine. First though depending on what you get as far as a first straight razor, realize that if it is from the factory it is most likely NOT what is considered 'shave ready' and you should send it to a honemeister to get it honed. And (I'm sure that this couldn't possibly be empasized enough or too much but)just take it very slow and be careful, you will find loads of info and help here, just do the sides of your face one day and gradually move forward as you feel comfortable and gain confidence and improve your technique. And again just take it very slow, there is no hurry, especially in putting a gash on your one and only face. And enjoy this new part of your day, it's not a chore anymore.

And did I mention to take it slow and be careful.

Regards

Welcome to SRP. Here is a post from SRP founder Lynn Abrams on your first straight razor shave. Here is the SRP Wiki beginner's guide. There is a lot to chew on in there. If you have any questions along the way don't hesitate to ask and members will be around to help out.

Welcome to SRP.
I was told to practise on a peach... if one could shafe the fuzz of the peach without cutting it... it was time to try... I did this once or twice then just jumped in to practising on my face... I do cut myself from time to time, but read the wiki. After I read that I learned so much about what I had been doing wrong and what I had done right. So I whole heartedly recomend reading the articles once or twice.

If all else failes, ask and I'm sure these guys are more than willing to help you out.

I have never felt more welcome at any forum.

(I'm a complete newbie to this myself, but I'm hooked and will not let a cut or two get in the way of me getting a good shave.)