Strop Maintenance question

Hey guys, shave 6 went better and I covered all my face except the chin...only a small nick. My question though is about strop care. I bought an Illinois strop off the bay says "Russian Imperial" on the front so its the reverse side of the leather and canvas on the back. My question is, should I put anything on the strop in the way of dressing? I read in the old shaving book in another thread that they use to put lather on it....? What's others doing? I'm now officially addicted....Hi my name is Dave.....and I'm addicted to straights.

Hello Dave,
It shouldn't need messing around with. I have heard that Illinois strops can take a little more work breaking in to get them working well. I'd avoid dressing it right now though.

I find just rubbing the strop with my hand helps to break it in. The oils from your skin do a good job of softening the leather up..!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Stubear

I find just rubbing the strop with my hand helps to break it in. The oils from your skin do a good job of softening the leather up..!

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Hello, Wickedblade:

Stuart's suggestion works for me, too. For years I have given my strops a few gentle strokes with the palms of my hands and found that's all I need.

Regards,
Obie

I have that same strop and it is my only strop. I just rub my hand (clean) on it every day and it has broken in nicely it just took about a month before it was broken in completely. Good luck it has worked for me quite well

I guess it would depend on the state of the strop.
You don't say if it's new or used.
If used and the leather is in bad condition, you definitely have to take care of it.
If not, just disregard the above and accept my congratulations on your newly acquired addiction.
You and I, a self proclaimed addict too, are in good company :)