Thread: New starter looking to learn.

Hi there Gents,I've been thinking of making the change from disposable to traditional for some time and recently decided to take the plunge; so thought that the best way of getting started was to take advice from chaps eminently more qualified.Andy.

You've come to the right place. The folks here are full of info and well as BS. Just joking of course about the BS. The info on wet shaving as it's called is limitless. I would sugest to watch you tube videos as much as possible because it's easier to watch and listen than it is to type. Don't be afraid to ask question that's what these guys are here for and they enjoy sharing what they know about this sport. just remember to take it slow it's not a race. the main thing is to enjoy. Oh and Welcome to Straight razor place.

welcome aboard mate
definitely on the right path by starting here prior to kicking off,
make sure you check out all the beginners threads to help you along
and don't be shy of asking if you cant find the info you are looking for

if you haven't found them already these are the links to some of the beginner sticky's from the home page

Beginner's guide to straight razor shaving - Straight Razor Place Library

Buying a beginner's set on a budget - Straight Razor Place Library
First straight razor shave - Straight Razor Place Library
Frequently Asked Questions - Straight Razor Place Library

Welcome! We were all new at one point, so don't be afraid to ask what is on your mind The links above will be a great place to get you started.

Chaps, I have already bought most of the things that I'll need however buying a brush is proving to be a bit of a sticking point.
I realise that personal preference probably plays big part but wondered if you could you point me in the right direction for more information or could maybe offer some advice?

Normally it helps for a person to give some idea of what they are looking for in a brush which means personal preferences. Unfortunately, if you have not used a brush of any sort then it is impossible to recommend a brush that might suit you.

All I can say is that badger, boar or synthetics all work well enough for me. They all have different characteristics and feel on the face when lathering. Sorry not to more able to help than that.

Bob

Only way to understand a brush is to use one. So depending on your budget, go shopping. I like to touch, see, smell a product before I purchase. That has put me in every beauty supply store within 60 miles. For less that $20 each, I've started my collection of boar brushes. They aren't badger, don't have beautiful handles or engraved maker marks. They do put soap on my face.
There seems to be two types of latherers; Bowl & Face. I started trying to generated later in a mug, cup, or bowl. I did achieve moderate success. Then I tried Face lathering. That works for me! Simple as wetting my brush, getting some soap on it, and swipe, swirl, and scritch my way to plenty of what I need; Soap to lube my razors passage.
So get you a brush, any brush. Later you will develop preferences. I can't think of too many ways to do it "wrong". Mostly too much water, or not enough.

Oh, and watch that guy above me, BobH. I want to be like him when I grow up.

Brush will be was buy anything that looks good to you without spending a bunch. Later you will try others the main thing is get in there and learn. Building lather is one of the things that is a little tricky ,but any lather you make will be better than canned goo.

Now you said you have your gear? What razor and who honed it?
Try to read up on stropping, it's the most important skill you need to maintain a good edge, you can practice with a butter knife and your leg with jeans.

Good luck and read all the beginners stuff in our library ask for advise and try to actually listen. These guys won't steer you wrong and may save you a lot of pain and money along the way. Look for mentors in your area and see them if you can. Tc

Hi and welcome. Maybe just get a cheaper badger. Probably somewhere in between a scritchy boar and a soft badger so you can make your mind up from there. Also shouldn't be a problem if you use sosps and creams.

Originally Posted by AWal70

Chaps, I have already bought most of the things that I'll need however buying a brush is proving to be a bit of a sticking point.
I realise that personal preference probably plays big part but wondered if you could you point me in the right direction for more information or could maybe offer some advice?

Buy the cheapest brush you can, use a paint brush if you like. Get familiar with all the toys and then if you want to go out and spend big money on a virgin silver tip badger underbelly hair brush knock yourself out. The first brush I bought cost me $80. It now sits on the shelf and watches me use my $5.95 synthetic every day.