Search:

I've always flipped the razor before it stops moving. This reduces the chances of cutting the strop. Start the flip as you approach the end of the stroke and start back in the opposite direction...

I will explain sky coloring later, but for now:

Lather up whatever soap you're using. Lather up the strop. Allow it to dry overnight. Then wipe off the residue the next day. Moisten a towel...

Then, of course, there is always the "Ace" method: Lather the crap out of it!