Hi, I'm 41 and currently live in Devon, UK.

I've been shaving with a Merkur DE Slant Bar and Feather blades for a while now and have recently (literally 2 weeks ago) decided to give straight razor shaving a go.

I won a "Vintage Es-Ese" razor on Ebay 2 weeks ago for £10 (cue someone telling me they're crap, with a capital C) the day before we flew to Spain for a fortnight in the sun, so I haven't took receipt of it yet as we were away the day after I paid for it, it should be here in next day or two. I will be sending it to be sharpened and given a once-over to "The Invisible Edge" once it arrives.

I use Taylor of Old Bond Street shaving creams, would soap be better? I was thinking of Mitchells Wool fat.
Should I get a leather, or a leather and canvas strop?
Should I get a different/better razor? Was considering The Invisible Edge's own brand razor.

Cheers for now,
Paul.