Yours is a familiar tale my friend. I've got only a handful of shaves under my belt and I'm not even close to being proficient. That being said though I do notice my technique improving every time. Relearning to shave with a straight razor is funny because I've always hated shaving in the past. Suddenly I can't wait to shave only now I'm really BAD at it. It takes twice as long and I usually end up with a nick or some razor burn or both. Oddly, I find the whole event really enjoyable though - its pretty confusing but I don't question it. I'll keep enjoying it - I just hope the future holds less bleeding for the both of us.