Quote Originally Posted by 1OldGI View Post
Sounds like you may be overthinking the whole process a bit. If you're currently a DE shaver you have all the basics down. As far as the non-razor part of the routine, I'd just do whatever you normally do for a DE shave. Yeah, you'll need to learn to hold a drive a shavette (and probably a traditional straight after that) but don't let it freak you out too badly. Just pay attention to blade angle, placement and pressure (just like a DE) and here's one I learned the hard way: If for whatever reason, the blade binds or doesn't move the answer is NOT put some arse behind it (force it). Instead, pick the blade up re-set and gently glide the blade where you want it.

It really is a bit like the first few times you drive on snow and ice. If you're driving along with a white knuckle grip on the steering wheel and four inches of drivers seat upholstery slammed between your butt cheeks, as soon as the rear end wanders just a little, you'll freak out, whip the wheel in six directions and the car will end up hitting something or running off in the ditch. It's just driving (or in this case, shaving) relax and enjoy the ride.
Great analogy, I can't stress enough the importance of the blade angle and pressure. It took 4 months before I was able to get a great shave out of my shavette. I was getting good shaves but nothing fantastic, and almost gave up on the whole Pipe dream. Persistence and practice will pay off!