1st Shave...learning the skill

Ok, just did my first shave....Wow! I won't say it was the most comfortable shave I have ever had but it was definitely the closest.

My girlfriend bought me a brand new Dovo 6/8 and Strop from SRD for my birthday. I stropped it up and went to it. overall it went pretty well, I did not hack up my face which was my concern and only nicked my earlobe which bled a little bit.
I started on my left sideburn and using short strokes worked my way down to my jaw line. then switched to my right cheek and did the same. I was more than a little tentative realizing that I was holding a blade to my face that could do some serious damage if not respected. I started to shave my neck but was getting a little fatigued and decided to finish off with my regular twin blade.
Overall it was a good experience and I look forward over the next few years to learning the skills of shaving with a straight. Next time I will try to go a little farther and shave my neck.

BTW quick question can you shave with either side of the razor? does it matter whether you are shaving with the printed side or the non printed side?

Either side of blade works and you can even use either hand..whichever is most comfortable for you :) congrats on your shave, they only get better!

In a few days/weeks you will be doing the "backhand" ATG up the left side of your neck. Then you will get a great feeling of gratification because you have tamed the straight razor beast. :)

willow & dancraig,

thank you for the info. and support. Right now I only feel comfortable shaving with my dominant hand. I tried briefly with my non-dominant and felt I better get a feel with the dom hand and can shave my entire face before getting fancy.
The small portion of my face that I shaved with the straight has never felt so smooth. I guess shaving with a straight is a skill which will be learned over time. As long as I respect the razor I should be alright.

I will keep the board posted as to my progress from time to time.