Thinking from Moving from DE Shaving
Hello, Metero57:
Perhaps I can answer some of your questions.
1. Yes, beard reduction also applies to straight razor shaving. Obviously your method will be slightly different, but the process is almost the same. Don't forget the stretching with the straight razor.
2. Strop before shaving. Many of us also strop after the razor is cleaned and dried. Before shaving, I generally have 25 strokes on canvas and 50 on leather, though I vary that from time to time, depending on the razor. With some razors that come with harder steel, such as my Wackers, I change the ratio to 50/100. After the shave, I do 15 on canvas and 25 on leather. This is to clean the razor a bit more and dry it a bit more. Others have their own stropping ratios. Eventually you'll determine what works best for you.
3. I definitely would go along with Lynn's suggestion on using both hands. He is my shave guru. I used both hands on the first day, and still do. To train my non-dominant hand further, for the months after starting I used it to do various chores, such as brush my teeth with the left hand, pick things up with my left hand, and so on. Of course, there is nothing wrong with using only one hand. The choice will be yours. I suggest two hands, yes, but I also suggest using methods that work best for you.
4. Strop at the rate comfortable for you: not too fast and not too slow. What does that mean? Eventually you will determine the proper speed that is most comfortable to you, and where you can control the razor best.
Keep at it. You're on your way.
Regards,
Obie
Thinking From Moving . . .
Hello, Motero57:
Congratulations, my good man. You're doing just fine. For now forget the BBS and focus on technique. If you must still use the DE for cleanup, I see nothing wrong with it. Eventually, though, you will use the DE less and less — and will soar with your new Thiers-Issard. Stay with it: slowly, carefully and methodically. Don't use pressure and don't force the razor. Good work.
Regards,
Obie