First time with a Shavette
So the postman came today, and he came bearing my Parker Shavette. I was very excited when I saw it and thought "wow, I can't wait to give this a try tonight." I intentionally took my beard down with the electric last night in hopes it would be the last time. Anyway, me being mr tough guy, it certainly took me quite a long time to build up the nerve to make the lather and take this to my face. I know it isn't as intimidating as a normal Str8 would be, but it was enough for someone whose never shaved like this. Anyway, I got the lather built up, and honestly only applied it to my right cheek. I thought if it wasn't going to go well, it wasn't going to go well fast. I was pleasantly surprised that it went surprisingly well.
Overall, I made two passes, one WTG and on XTG. Total problems were about 3 total abrasions, I wouldn't even call them cuts so much becuase they didn't bleed hard, just little dabs. And in the long run, some harsh razor burn on my neck. I of course missed some spots, but I thought it best to not push my luck this evening and just give it a go tomorrow again if necessary.
I learned a lot in this first step though. I will share what I learned. First would be how interesting of a feeling it is to shave with only 1 blade, 1 very sharp blade. There was some pulling here and there and I quickly realized why. I wanted to go slow and so I did, that is where the pulling came in for me. Second thing I learned because of that pulling is that while you don't want to rush, you cannot go too slow. I remembered reading that you take short but confident strokes. The confidence wasn't there until I realized I had to be or I was going to cut myself good. The third thing I learned once I got the angle of attack down is what a smooth pass should feel like. It was like the razor was on glass, simply amazing.
I have a feeling that I will keep learning things as I move along this hobby/lifestyle. And for the record, the reason for the shavette vs a normal Str8 and Strop at this point is simply a cost issue. I hope that soon enough I will be able to afford a quality blade and strop.
Thanks for stopping by!