Thread: Well I did it!

Hi All,
First shave with a straight this morning went really well! In fact, much better then I thought. Managed to do about 80% of my face! but needed my trusty DE to do the chin. Could not figure that out. Also, really seemed awkward to hold, and I did most of my face, both sides, with my right hand. Have to watch a few more videos and practice with a butter knife. Only one (very tiny) nick, so that's good. I did a WTG and XTG pass with the straight, cheeks and sides were no problem. Cleaned and stropped the razor afterwards and it still cuts hair off my arm (so I did not roll the edge). All in all a good first start.

Kevin

Congratulations, I was so stubborn to finish all the shave with straigth so I got many cuts. Its a good start for you

Great! You are on your way, your face will thank you in 30 shaves...

Kevin,
Go easy, a little at a time, and you'll get there. Remember to keep your strokes short, and let the razor's weight be all the pressure you need. It's all right to finish off with the double edge as you learn. If I may also suggest, try to switch hands. Yes, shaving both sides of your face with the dominant hand is fine; however, I have found that switching hands improves my field of vision and gives me more flexibility with the blade. Either way, welcome to Straight Razor Place.

Congratulation and I'll echo what Obie said. Take your time don't push it. It will all come together in time.

Bob

Hi there. The chin is the trickiest part for me as well.
The main thing that works for me is pay attention to the angles and stretch the skin. I got the hang of it after about 10 shaves.

Originally Posted by Kpfeifle

Also, really seemed awkward to hold, and I did most of my face, both sides, with my right hand.

Remember that you can hold the razor any which way you want! Take a look at this link
I started out only using grip 1 since that was what they all seemed to do in the videos, but I learned that I need grip 10 in some areas of my face to get BBS.

Great start! I too find the chin the hardest area. Each time I shave, I try different directions (as the hair is straight up in that area, so no real WTG). I still get nick once and a while, mostly on the left side of the chin...been trying to use both hands and not as coordinated with my left.

Try the hand positions from Peterlh's link, as they provide some ideas to try.

Thanks guys, some great suggestions. It will be a long, fun road!

Kevin

Congratulations Kevin keep at it

Congratulations! The first one is the hardest.