Thread: buy another strop?

Naw, run with the one you've got! I have the very same strop only black.

The thing with beginners messing up strops is they (we) take a little time really learning the mechanics of it. If you stop the blade before lifting up the edge you may unconsciously pull it back a little & cut the leather. If you flip it too soon & you're still moving in the same direction when it lays down on the other side you may cut the leather.

Try the butter knife & newspaper as mentioned in another topic to get the basic mechanics and be sure to lift off the edge before stopping & start moving in the opposite direction before laying the edge back down. There are also some good stropping videos out there on YouTube, it's easier for me to learn by seeing as opposed to reading. Be careful and go slow at first, you'll do fine! I've been straight shaving for 2-3 weeks now & haven't nicked anything but my lower lip yet!

Just remember, slight pressure on the spine is fine, but don't put any on the edge or you risk rolling it & spoiling the hone!



Edit: As for how long it will last, that's entirely up to you! Most people rub it with their hand before stropping to impart a little oil from their skin into the leather. If you ever feel it getting harder/stiffer it's likely drying out & you could use a leather conditioner on it to keep it alive.