I am not an expert honer either but I do note a few things that may be causing you some problems.
- If you are going to start out with tape, I would continue using the tape through the entire progression. If anything, as you get to finer hones, you may want to increase the thickness of the tape to get a double bevel.
- Second, I would not start out with a 325 hone unless the blade was in very poor condition.
- Third, I would not be dropping back to a 1200 unless you needed to re-establish the bevel. It is a bit coarse for a razor in good condition.
- Fourth, the jump between 1200 and 8000 is quite large. You may want to consider having something in the 4K range to bridge the gap. It is difficult to remove the scratch pattern from a 1200 using a 8000 hone. The scratches from the 1200 are rather deep for the 8000 to remove very fast. It can be done but it is a slow process.
- In general, you should find that once you have your edge in good shape, you should be able to maintain it with an occasional touchup on your 12K every 3 to 6 months depending on how heavy you use your razor.
- Finally, you may find that Cromium Oxide paste will help provide a nice final polish on your razor before stropping. I found that it really helps to smooth out the edge even coming off of my Japanese Nakayama hone.