There is so much to learn about Str8 razor shaving I tackled them one at a time. For the first few months I used a good shave cream, probably a little more than I needed, to ensure a really good thick lather. I tried the soaps but they were watery, thin and I wanted to concentrate on learning to shave.
When I started I made sure my razors were shave ready (Thanks Lynn) and learned to strop and shave first. I did not use a str8 if I had to rush and I still don't. I kept a DE ready to go and continue to have when readily available.
There are many things to learn about wet/str8 razor shaving that IMHO, it gets overwhelming and then you bleed or worse, stop trying and go back to the "other" way.
Take your time, go slow, learn to shave. Your shaving skills as well as all the other skill will come in time.
I keep the DE with a fresh blade on the counter, ready to go.