I've seen it mentioned somewhere around here but can't find the thread again, my search-fu is weak. So is it advisable to use a strip of news paper and a butter knife to learn/practice stropping?
Matt
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I've seen it mentioned somewhere around here but can't find the thread again, my search-fu is weak. So is it advisable to use a strip of news paper and a butter knife to learn/practice stropping?
Matt
IF you fold up some newspaper to about 2 1/2 inches by 24" and clip it to a paper clamp which is tied to something stable it gives you a good practice surface to learn light strokes and the end of stroke flip. You can actually move up to a razor and use this set up to strop. Some find it easier to lay the paper down flat on the edge of a table or counter.....YMMV
It just keeps getting better.
+1 to above. I think it's a great way to learn stropping using a shave ready razor.
Oh, but then again there's always this guy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4oHzFNclzQ
Wasn't this guy in a row with some of our executive membership? While good, I have learned a heck of a lot more from the folks here! Especially with regards to stropping.
I folded the news paper 3" wide and straddled it over the towel rack. Did not get too long a stroke but help me immensely to learn the flip and pressure. Only nick my new then latigo strop once very minor and repaired just fine. I highly recommended for learning.
One more thing, I used the actual straight. Figure if I cut the news paper no big deal. Also only when I had the confidence and a little bid of rithem, was when I went to the real one. Needles to say, I did not shave for 3 to 4 days until I felt confident with the flip and pressure.
Practice 2-3 times a day and you will get it quick. Double O
Thanks for all the advice guys.
And spoon shaving strangely awesome.
Matt
An old leather belt will also do the trick even though it will be a lot narrower.