In addition to Ace's recommendation on the SS (a perfect edge is only minutes and less than $1 away) when you do try regular Straights I'd recommend either the Dove BQ from SRD as jhenry noted and/or something from the great Classifieds here at SRP.

For strops I'm a huge fan of the SRD Modular - when you mess up (and you will) you can replace the damaged surface for a fraction of the cost.
And I use the system with felt pads and diamond spray to maintain the edge.

Lots to learn, worth the effort, many of us wish we had started years (decades) ago...

All the best and great shaving!