Thread: Please tell me I'll get better at this!

Hello, Flyman:

Yes, it does take time to hone your skill with the straight razor, but you will get there. Have patience and be methodical in the learning process. Here are some thoughts that might help you:

1. Apply no pressure; let the pressure from the razor's weight be enough.

2. Hold the razor as if it were a bird: if you squeeze hard, you squeeze life out of it, and if light, it will fly out of your hand.

3. The razor's angle during the shave should be approximately 30 degrees. The degree is approximate, measured from how far you lift the razor's spine (back) from your face. That is a general number and it will change in some parts of your face, such as chin and neck.

4. Don't shave over the same spot excessively, because this will irritate your skin.

5. Pay special attention to preparation: shave after a shower; use quality soaps or creams; learn how to make luxurious lather. There are numberous You Tube videos on this.

6. Make sure your razor is shave ready.

7. Learn to strop properly. Stropping is important. Strop before each shave, and after. I usually do 25 strokes on linen or fabric and 75 on leather. Sometimes, especially with the razors that have harder steel, I do a 50/100 ratio. Well, I enjoy stropping, too.

8. Take your time shaving and don't worry about getting a baby-bottom smooth shave right now. That will come later.

9. You might want to use a light application of pre-shave before you begin lathering.

10. There are other tips, but that should be enough for now. Make sure you learn all you can in the Wiki, where you will find a wealth of information on all aspect of wet shaving with the straight razor.

Regards,

Obie