Greetings from Ames, IA

Hello

I have been contemplating going back to the basics of straight razor shaving for the past year, but other then the occasional search for razors (which sort of turned me off due to the price of new ones) I never really delved into it that much. But when I went to purchase refill blades for a Fusion Proglide (a birthday present) I was shocked to find them at $18/per 4, which was a huge jump up from my $12 refills that I have been using.

So two days ago I decided it was time to take the plunge. And after a bit of searching for advice, I run across this site. *hallelujah chorus* AMAZING! The advice, the wiki, the beginners guide, and better yet, the classified. Needless to say, you have a new convert to the world of straight razor shaving. After browsing everything, I went ahead and made my first razor purchase from "Stimpy52" (of which I am eagerly awaiting its arrival), some Tabac soap, strop, and badger brush. And as I sit here counting the seconds until everything arrives, I am poring over every bit of advice that I can find about first time users. Its a lot to take in, but I will do it. ;)

Nathan

Welcome to SRP and the world of straight shaving. Just remember at first to take it slow, allow yourself time to complete your first shave and remember to have a light touch. Also don't get frustrated. You will be learning a new skill and it takes time.

Also check out the member map and leave your mark. http://straightrazorpalace.com/vbgooglemapme.php
you may find a member near you who will be willing to help you first hand.

You have already found the Wiki section so you are good to go there.
So just enjoy and again welcome to SRP!

I have a house in Iowa City, but am in the extended process of moving to Minnesota. I will gladly help you out in any way necessary to help you get started. I can bring some toys back down to help you with a honing lesson. Do you ever have a need to come to Iowa City?

Alternatively, BKratchmer is in Decorah and goes to Waverly sometimes, so either of us could help you see some things in person rather than just reading about it.

Welcome to SRP! That $18 pack would last me about half a month if I wanted to keep my neck from looking like it was attacked by an army of red ants. That's what sent me looking for alternatives again.

This Friday I move my family to Le Mars, IA. Not exactly in the neighborhood, but not too far away. I've got no wisdom to impart, but I'm doing the same, counting the seconds until Utopian gets my razors honed and back to me, and reading everything I can find here at SRP (and packing...or atleast supposed to be packing).

Welcome to SRP! :)

You will find that you have a number of fellow str8 shavers in Iowa.
They had a Razor Meet just last fall. There will most likely be others from Iowa posting here soon.

:gl:

Thank you for the warm welcome.

I am sure that I will have plenty of questions, but the best thing about this site is that most of the questions I will have, have probably already been answered.

I haven't started watching the videos yet, but with those, along with the information provided here, I am no longer leery about getting into this.

I did end up making another purchase off the classifieds, since some have suggested getting two razors to start out.

Sbrouwers: I did place my mark on the map. And there are a couple of people close to me.

Utopian: It was actually one of the threads you had posted in that drew me to this site. And I probably hit Minnesota more then I do Iowa City. But no matter what, if I do have any questions, I will be sure to get in touch with you.

BigJim: I can't wait to join you on your quest for a better shave. LOL It will definitely be a learning experience.

Hello and welcome to SRP. Sounds like you've got a good setup on the way. Time and patience is key :)

To help you find people in your area do the following...
from the menu at the top of this page.....


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http://straightrazorpalace.com/begin...r-arrived.html

My first experience...

And thank you for the advice Randy.

Moving to Minnesota! Woooo Hoo.

Welcome aboard. Patience and Practice will get you many great shaves down the road. Read the WIKI, watch the videos--Lynn's DVD is also a great investment. The guys on this site are an absolutely fantastic resource, so don't hesitate to ask questions.