As a newbie, you touch on a number of things that I was about to ask. So far I haven't made too much of a bloody mess of my face and have gotten an okay shave, but I certainly have a long way to go. I guess my first question is about the sharpness of my razor. I purchased a Dovo 5/8 razor from a cutlery/shaving shop. It seems very sharp - should I be doing anything to it at this point beyond stropping? How often should I strop (every day, every other day)? It sounds like you are saying that for now I should not use stopping paste, is that correct? Also, the stop I purchased is an Illinois 827 and I guess I don't understand when one uses the linen side vs. the leather. Thanks in advance for any advice.