Thread: New Feather Artist Club

Hello Fellas,

I've been shaving with a brush and DE of an on for a couple years now and decided to purchase a Feather Straight. I chose this to learn on to avoid other variables like honing & stroping. I picked up a used shave ready straight last year but just couldn't get the hang of it and gave up kinda quick.

All history aside, I determined to get the hang of this thing. My main problem so far is handling the razor. I just can't seem to keep the razor flush to my skin at a decent angle. This was one of my major problems with my first straight. I found the blade length was ackward, another reason why I chose the Feather was the shorter length of the blade.

I'm right handed and don't have much of a problem with the right side of my face, it's th left that I find difficult and ackward. Should I be switching hands? Any tips would be great!

Look forward to discussions!

A lot of folks switch hands, though it isn't mandatory. If you choose to switch hands, it will take a little while to build up your dexterity. Start with the easy stuff (like the cheeks) to build the motor skills and your confidence. Use a really light touch, which is often easier with the off-hand.

"a decent angle" on the feather is a lot shallower than a traditional straight, more like 15-20 degrees than the 30 degrees for a traditional straight.

If you can shave with both hands there are a lot fewer awkward spots. It's not hard to pick up, but it does take a little practice.

Thanks for the replies...I think it's going to be a slow transition for me as I will be shaving with my Merkur before work and plan to practice with the feather at night until I get the hang of it and build up confidence. I'll keep you guys posted.

Regards,

I use the Feather when I am on the road, I never mastered using my non-dominant hand to shave with, but I always get fantastic shaves from this implement no matter how bad my technique. When starting a new blade be very careful, they come a little too sharp IMHO. The 2nd- 6 or 7th shave will be great though.