What have I gotten myself into?
First I'll admit that I'm only four shaves in on a straight, but I'm starting to get a little frustrated. I'm wondering if I can give this the month that folks recommend to at least get to a satisfactory level. But then...
Okay, I've worked out enough kinks that I can pretty easily shave my cheeks. I can even go ATG and use either hand (although I seem to be better with my weak hand, odd). The rest of my face looks like hamburger with stubble. Okay, maybe not that bad, but roughly 6 decent nicks that take a little effort to stop. While I am reducing my stubble some, I still have a lot that I can't seem to get. When I finish up with my DE, I can't help but think, this thing's so easy, why not just use this? And no, I'm not going ATG anywhere but my cheeks. In fact, I don't really go XTG on my chin, neck or jaw.
Of course, in my frustration, I did notice how incredibly smooth my cheeks are. It's enough to keep me at it, but now I've got two more questions...
1. Are there any other videos or how to's other than what's posted here? I've been through them several times. There's a lot of good information in them, but it's all so second nature to them, I feel like I'm missing some minor points that experienced sorts take for granted. Maybe that's just climbing the learning curve.
2. I notice that I don't feel particularly comfortable with my grip on my skin and that I'm perhaps not stretching well enough. This may be a learning curve too, but any tips on stretching? I' making sure my fingers are dry, and I keep them out of my lather. I've heard people recommend an alum bar to tap your fingers on for a better grip, although I guess I could just try my styptic pencil. Any advice here?