I've been useing the rolling X for a while now, as most of my razors now have slight smiles Love the old vintage blades It takes time and practice, and a little bit of crazy When I was first trying to get a handle on these things I used a blade that was toast, trying different strokes and honing styles till I came up with what I do now. I still have a handfull of blades in a box awaiting just such abuse.

Always be ready to try something different. But once frustration kicks in, step away (as it seems you have ) and regroup.