New member from Kent, England.

Hi. Just joined the site. I've been using straight razors for about 4 months now and it's turned a dull chore into a job I actually enjoy. Of course having a couple of great TI razors has helped. I started with a Temperite by Case and Sons, but found the square point a little to happy to slice me without warning. I then bought a Dovo stainless steel with a round point at a very reasonable price. This was terrible until I ran it over my whetstones a few hundred times. After having great success with this razor and really starting to get a feel for it, I decided to treat myself to a more upmarket blade. But ended up with 2 from TI. Both are great blades and came truly shave ready. I am now getting the hang of the second pass ATG, but still get the odd follicle bleed.
If anyone could give me any tips to help alleviate the bleeds or let me know whether it's just a matter of time for my skin to get used to the shave, that would be great.
Unfortunately, I think I may have developed a bug to just keep buying razors. I keep looking at different sites and manufacturers, with the thought 'I like the look of that one, maybe I'll buy it' going through my head, and then have to pull myself away before spending all my money lol.
I would like to know if there are any really good custom makes around at sensible prices?
Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Welcome. I've some good friends in Kent, one or two might even drift through here now and again.

Light pressure, get a feel for the natural angle where the blade shaves well and more practice. Each time you shave you're giving the wet computer more information to develop the best average for your face. Until then a stypic pencil or some alum can be had at most shave suppliers.

Mike

Thanks Mike.
I thought it may just be a question of time for my hand and face to get use to the feel of the blade. I've been reading a few sites and I think the Alum block looks like a good long lasting choice.
What about things like aftershave or balm? At the moment I am using Crabtree and Evelyn Nomad soap and aftershave balm (great subtle scent). Are there any you would recommend over the rest?

Welcome to the fold Razorback73
In the beginning it comes down to practice, practice, and more practice. Over time you will build on technique. And it does get oh so much better. The trick is dont give up, if you hang in there your never look back at a disposable blade ever again.
As far as your new purchasing addiction, I'm affraid that will probably get worse. Especially when you troll this forum, the photos here will drive you crazy, and you will be powerless. But dont worry all this stuff is way too cool.
You will do fine my friend,
Tarkus

Hmm, the question of skin food is a subjective thing. If you enjoy it, or your friends do, I'd be hard pressed to criticize your choices.

Ok. Well what about the aftershave balm? It's alcohol free but when I first apply it, it stings just like normal aftershave, almost a burn. Is this normal or is there a chance my skin just doesn't like this product?