New member from Birmingham uk

[Philstone]

Hey guys, just had my first shave with a straight razor this morning. Went really well! Managed to use both hands without a problem, also the chin and top lip went ok to my surprise. Did not manage the side of my mouth so well though, got a long cut about 1 inche long to the side of my mouth. Just got the angle wrong!!! As soon as the blade touched I new I had got it wrong.
After using alum my neck is red, I read that this can happen for the first few days. I may also have been using too much presure, expect I will find out over the next few days/ weeks.
Thanks for all the advice on these boards.

[England]

Welcome from just up the road in Coventry.
Sounds like you did pretty well for your first attempt. Minimum pressure is key !

[Matt69]

Welcome from just down the road in Solihull!

It's worth taking your time and getting comfortable with the razor before trying to get super-smooth results, or even tackling the difficult bits of the face at all. Don't want to give yourself a Chelsea grin, after all.

Good job, though! With practice, it keeps getting better, too.

[dustoff003]

Welcome from Oahu via Kosovo! Don't give up and avoid that cut area until it heals, good on you for going at it with both hands on the first try.

[Philstone]

Thanks for your welcome guys. Sticking with the straight razor, although for some reason shaving with the left hand feels more awkward now.

Tried ATG today and got a little slice under my chin.. Oh well, each nik is a lesson. The good lady thinks i'm mad, says i'm going through a mid life crisis!

Purchased some Naniwa waterstones; 3000, 5000, 8000 & 12,000. Will try and learn how to hone on the Devo razor and shave with the vintage razor I got from the Invisable Edge.