Thread: Hello from Maine, could definitly use some pointers!

Hello there everybody. My name is Trent Quinby from Bar Harbor, ME. I have lurked among the forums for several months now, and finally took the plunge. I have always been fascinated by straight razor shaving, but never thought I could seriously undertake it - until recently I have practiced the profession of broke college student. A few weeks ago I went to buy new blades for my Gillette Fusion (commence the hissing) and was so annoyed at the ridiculous prices I immediately left the store.

I have eaten youtube videos for three meals a day and have read everything I can on the forums. I took the plunge and purchased a Dovo Best set from SRD, and could not be more pleased with it. I decided this evening would be the time to try it, and I went for it. I must admit I had some mixed results.

I am excited to be diving into a new world, and I can see that I have a tremendous amount to learn. I got thought the first shave a bit scruffy, a bit razor-burned and a bit bloody......I also can tell that I am in need of practice to not make abysmal lather and to reduce the abuse I have already set upon my poor strop!

Can't wait for my beard to grow so I can take another crack at it tomorrow!

Trent Q

Originally Posted by MaritimeFanatic

Can't wait for my beard to grow so I can take another crack at it tomorrow!

Trent Q

My "pointer" would be that this is the key to success.

Hello Trent! Welcome to SRP. Straight razor shaving is an art that takes some time to get used to. Take your time and start by shaving your sideburns and cheeks WTG only and finish up w/ your current razor. To reduce the razor burn be sure not to use any pressure with the razor against your face and try to keep the angle around 30 degrees. You can practice shaving with a butter knife or popsicle stick. To practice stropping a butter knife works well here to. While only making lather when you shave saves money making it a few times a day until you get good at it may make your shaves better. Don't be afraid to take a few days off from straights to let your cuts heal. Keep us posted!

Good luck