Thread: Hello from Chicago!

Hi everyone,
I just got started with straight razors after years of using cartridge razors. My wife recently bought me a Gillette Fusion set from The Art of Shaving. After using their oil, cream, and aftershave I was very impressed. And my first time using a brush....I can't believe I didn't try one sooner! After using these products I started researching straight razors and bought one. The first shave, even with perfect prep, went horribly. The blade didn't cut anything. I had to finish with my Gillette. I'm now razor bumped all over. I have sensitive skin so I'm trying to figure out how to do all this right. I just mailed my razor to straight razor designs for a sharpening and also ordered another razor from them along with a paddle strop(the hanging one is difficult for me and too thin) and the DVD which I expect delivery of today.

Ahhhh excellent, you listed a number of things in your post that will help you:

1. Lynn is going to sharpen your razor. This is a good thing. It will be sharp and smooth.
2. You got a good strop right off the bat. Kudos to you.
3. The dvd. Take it slow, there's lots of time to excel and master this craft.

These three things combined will definitely assist you in your learning. Let us know if you need help, send a mentor a PM and we'll answer you as best we can.

Good luck!

Welcome,
What part of Chicago are you from?
I am in the Western Subs.

I'm from the northern suburbs....although most of my days are spent in the southwest.
I received my shipment already. Should I strop before the first shave or do you think Lynn already prepped the blade for me? The strop has a rough leather and smooth leather side. Also....last question for now....the blade is coated in oil. How should I remove it and will wiping the blade with a napkin damage it?

Originally Posted by MNDZA

I'm from the northern suburbs....although most of my days are spent in the southwest.
I received my shipment already. Should I strop before the first shave or do you think Lynn already prepped the blade for me? The strop has a rough leather and smooth leather side. Also....last question for now....the blade is coated in oil. How should I remove it and will wiping the blade with a napkin damage it?

You can go ahead and shave without stropping, it comes stropped

Just wipe off the oil with a paper towlel, the rest will disappear when shaving.

+1 On that. Lynn ships them out ready to go. Noting the date; hopefully by now you've had a chance to try it out. How'd it go?

Most of my family is in the Northern Suburbs...with some in the city itself. I love it back there, but since I don't live there anymore I don't have to deal with the traffic or construction!

Peace,
Jim