First Attempt at a Razor Roll

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This is the first test roll. I used a single stitch and knot for the dividers. I went overboard with the mineral oil, but I figure it will work itself out over time. For light use, think this is a decent solution, but I think it would be more durable with a backer material or at least with a double layer of microfiber where it folds over the tails, lest they wear thru over time.
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I researched some different oils to impregnate it with. Ballistol was recommended to me, however Ballistol dissolves brass, lead, and gold. So, ivory razors with lead wedges, inox razors with gold wash, and pretty much anything with brass washers or pins... prolly should not be using Ballistol.

If I can source some Camellia oil locally for a decent price, I may switch over to that. For right now, I'm using simple mineral oil in the form of baby oil with listed ingredients of mineral oil and fragrance. I don't think my razors need vitamin E, Aloe, or Shea butter. If anyone has a suggestion for a hypoallergenic silicone lubricant, I would love to hear them.

I researched some different materials. My first good thought was Chamois or some other type of absorbent/wicking leather...but apparently while leather is fine for temporary or short term storage for razors, the acids used to tan and treat leather can actually eat in to and dissolve metal over time. Also, I don't typically work with leathers, so I don't have a set of punch tools at hand. My second thought was Wool. I took a pass on wool because I plan on making a few of these and one of the intended recipients is allergic to wool. I'm not sure of the severity, but it's not worth the risk. Wool has great moisture wicking properties and will also absorb moisture and release it to atmosphere over time, due to it's natural fiber properties. Silk also came up in my research, but it's pricey for my purpose and it's wicking is substandard when compared to wool. One material came up in my research as superior to wool for wicking purposes. Good ole Nuclear age Polyester... To that end, I settled on MicroFiber which is 100% polyester in a furry on both sides with a decently strong core. The polyester lends wicking and the fur allows air to circulate around the razor.

The microfiber is a shop rag or car washing rag measuring 16 inches by 16 inches and I eyeballed the spacing for the stitches/knots and I hand stitched everything. I'm sure it would be 10 minutes on a sewing machine vs a couple of hours of casual sewing while watching television. A two pack of microfiber rags is $2-3. The needle came in a variety pack for $1.00. I used decent quality upholstery outdoor thread which was $3 for 200 yards. I didn't have any paracord laying around, so It was another $4 for a multicolored pack of cord.

It's a test build, so I'm still changing things, like adding a second polyester backing to strengthen the area where it looks like the tail would wear through over time.

Very well done. I think you hit the target with the materials. You could even bring it to a local tailor to have them sew the dividers.

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Originally Posted by Mvcrash

Very well done. I think you hit the target with the materials. You could even bring it to a local tailor to have them sew the dividers.

Great minds must think alike, because that's exactly what my wife said.

I still haven't decided if fully stitched dividers are necessary or if they would hinder fitment. I do think that more than a single knot stitch would be beneficial to durability. The single knot still provides a guide to place the razor where it needs to go, but it doesn't pull the other pockets out of alignment like I think a fully stitched seam would. I don't know though. My mother is supposed to be bringing me her sewing machine this weekend and I'll test it out both ways on a few more rolls.

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This is what I use. It works well. Less than ten bucks (made by Craftsman)...

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A good prototype. Micro fiber stadium blankets or bulk fabric may be a more cost effective supply.

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Originally Posted by Nphocus

...If anyone has a suggestion for a hypoallergenic silicone lubricant, I would love to hear them...

Now just to mess with you, How would you explain to SWMBO why you ordered a case of Pink Silicone Lubricant for Women - 4 oz by Victoria's Secret:). I just use spray silicone lubricant from the hardware store on my razors and have had no issues.

Jonathan