I am new to this also but here is what I have found. I use C.O. Bigelow cream about almond size. I mix about 8-12 drops of water at a time. I add tell it looks like whip cream at that point if you take some and run between your fingers its rough. keep adding water and check between your fingers the more water you add the smoother it feels. When you start to see small bubbles in it is when i call it good. My lather doesnt break down during my whole shave and its slick giving you that lubrication on your skin you need.
Jeff