Thread: Hello from Chicago

Good Afternoon, All,

Just signed up after deciding that I'm really done with paying $25 for 4 blades for my Gillette Fusion, only to drop 'em in the landfill within a month. So, after lurking here for a week and browsing around, I pulled the trigger on the Dovo 6/8" set that Lynn sells over on Straight Razor designs. And chipped in extra for the video, and that was probably the best $13 I've spent in my life.

When I started out to shave the first time, I didn't quite quit where Lynn told me to. I've got enough Native American in me, that my cheeks really don't have much on them, so I did both cheeks the first time instead of just one. The only problem I really noticed was that I think my lather was a bit too thick: I noticed it starting to dry and pull a bit by the time I got to the second cheek. So, a quick rebrush with the soap, and life was good.

And I love the Sandalwood soap that I antied up for as part of the purchase. All in all, a very satisfying experience so far.

Looking forward to learning more!

Brian

Hi'ya Brian, welcome. Another relative newcomer here - been shaving with a straight razor for 2 months or so. Am starting to figure it out. I'm in the western burbs near St Charles. How about you?

There's a group here for the Chicago folks - hasn't been too active in the time that I've been here, but perhaps we can kick start it.

I'm a little farther south (Bolingbrook).

I'll have to take a peek around and see if I can find the link for the Chicago subgroup.

Do you know of any local resources (things like honing and such like)? Lynn was as good as his word when he promised a shave-ready razor, but at some point it's going to have to be touched up, and I'd just as soon have it done locally. That way I won't have to be without "my precious" for a week or more.

Of course, the other solution is just to buy another razor.

Bri

Hey, you guys in the same area - you have some opportunity here. You'll inevitably want to try new and other stuff, from blades to brushes to strops, soaps, creams, etc. Why should each of you buy the same stuff separately? GET TOGETHER! Try each other's stuff. You can figure out what you like or don't like w/out going broke buying stuff. This has helped me find my absolute fav. soap (Provence Sante), fav. blade for DE backup (Derby), Fav DE razor: Gill. super adj. There's no reason to duplicate all this stuff. Save some dough for when you have it sorted & be able to get the gucci stuff you know you'll be happy with.

You prob won't understand this next line, but: get on Robert Williams waiting list (about a year long). By then, you'll know what you like & will be up soon to order the exact blade you want. you can read the reviews here and elsewhere. He'll make insane quality exactly like you want it - size, grind, finish, scales, etc. I thought this was only for (rich) experienced old hands. Not so. If you don't go too fancy, they're about the cost of a premium blade (under $400).

Hi Brian,
Welcome to SRP. This is very last minute for you, but if you feel like taking a drive, there will be an Iowa meet-up TOMORROW in Iowa City, Iowa. If you'd like an opportunity for a crash course and a chance to see lots of razors and hones and other toys, then you are quite welcome to come.

Send me a PM if you'd like more information and/or directions.

Straight Razor Place Forums - Chicago Straight Razor Lovers

I'd drive to Iowa City, but I got a Cub Scout thing all day tomorrow. Maybe next time.

Originally Posted by Utopian

Hi Brian,
Welcome to SRP. This is very last minute for you, but if you feel like taking a drive, there will be an Iowa meet-up TOMORROW in Iowa City, Iowa. If you'd like an opportunity for a crash course and a chance to see lots of razors and hones and other toys, then you are quite welcome to come.

Send me a PM if you'd like more information and/or directions.

Frankly, I'd love to. Unfortunately, I'm finishing my basement right now and the spouse is keeping my nose to the grindstone, and I've got a buddy coming over to help most of the day tomorrow.

Please keep me in mind for the next time there's a get-together, though!

Brian

Hello, Brian:

Welcome to Straight Razor Place.

Chicago, eh? Great town. Chicago used to be home for me in the late 50s and early 60s. Senn High School on the north side. In the late 90s, the former classical radio station WNIB was my morning drive gig.

I know you will have many questions on the world of straight razor shaving, and I also know you will have your answer in no time. Some of the ladies and gentlemen at SRP have an astonishing range of knowledge.

We're glad to have you with us.

Regards,
Obie