Newbie's first thread and question

[ben.mid]

Great blades. I'm not sure how much you'll learn from a butter knife. It won't be anything like a straight to handle, but i guess it doesn't hurt to try. When you strop, just start slow & really concentrate on technique. Watch a few videos, make sure you flip with the spine remaining on the strop & don't rush anything. The speed will come in time. Good luck!

[Maq]

Thanks guys for all the initial help and encouragement.. There sure are a lot of people here willing do help you in any way... I am anxious to get my stuff. I bet that first shave is a thriller!! My camera is broken and I am in the market for a new one this weekend so when that is taken care of I'll give you a few pics of my new set up and the fine purchase I made at the antique store. I had so much fun doing it I think I'll do it again.. Kind of like treasure hunting! I'm sure there are lots more treasures to find.

I have a cream and oil from, "the art of shaving" that I got for my birth day last year.. will that be ok to use? The cream doesn't seem to make much lather.. maybe it doesn't have to? I hear about people making all kinds of lather and using a mug or a scuttle. Which is the best? Tnx again

Maq

[Thechef]

Hi and welcome aboard!

Take your time with stropping as this is the be all and end all to a clean smooth shave!

To be honest dont expect too much straight off from the first shaves as high expectations can leave you dissapointed.

Took me over a year and about eight razors and still counting to find my way and now its a pleasure to shave with a straight edge!

[Maq]

TheChef,
appreciate your post, and all the others.. sometimes you need to hear that its ok if it takes a while before you get a good shave with a straight razor. Thanks again, I'll be patient and take my time.. I had originally thought that honing was everything and that I would have to buy all kinds of expensive stones to hone with... then I was told that you probably won't need honing, if you are careful, but every three to six months. However stroping, you do every day you shave... seems pretty important to have a good strop and good technique.. I look forward to Lynn's dvd arriving.
Maq