Thread: My Second Shave

I just bought a strop, brush, soap, and alum today (Williamsport barber supply). I shaved almost all of my face wtg and atg with the exception of chin and mustache, and I feel awesome. I shaved yesterday just cheeks and burns with razor and barbasol shave cream the rest with a mach 3. I could not believe how much came off today from just 1 day. I did get a few nicks on my cheeks ( i cant remember the last time i shaved 2 days in a row) but the alum made it feel a ton better. It did sting at first, but i am quite satisfied with the quality of shave, its not bbs yet but I'm just proud that I've done my whole face (Sorry Lynn, I couldn't wait). It's funny but i can't wait to shave tomorrow. I stropped 20 times each side should I do more?

Howdy ReedyPA

Glad to hear you're getting on so well, and I also found the shaving to be addictive.

Most of the guys on here seem to say 40 linen 50 leather, personally I am stropping addicted and sometimes have a tendayncy to strop and strop and strop till my arm gets tired..... As far as I know as long as you're using good technique more won't do your razor any harm

Geek

Congrats on the nice shave. Most folks strop much more than 20 laps. I strop at least 50 before a shave. I also strop 50 times on linen after the shave.

Hello, ReedyPA:

Congratulations. Little by little you're on your way. Just take your time honing your straight razor skills, as well as your lather-making.

As a rule, I strop 25 strokes on the linen or fabric side and 75 on the leather. Sometimes I do a 50/100 ratio. I really enjoy the whole stropping routine. A ratio of 25/50 is a good figure, too. Of course, stropping properly is essential.

Say with it.

Regards,
Obie