Thread: Very discouraged. Any help??

Originally Posted by TJG

I did read that. I have been at it since December, but I just joined the site. I feel comfortable actually doing the passes (except for the across the grain on my chin). I am worried, too, that I really don't know how to strop properly. I have followed the videos I have seen and all, but I just worry that I suck. Plus, the strop I have has canvas. I have read that you use the canvas only half the number of times you do the leather (for whatever reason).

I do equal amounts stropping linen/leather so it varies with the individual. If you are comfortable with manipulating the razor through the passes having it pro honed is the next step. You might also consider buying a second razor for a rotation, and to have something if one or the other is out being honed. Good deals in the SRP classifieds or an entry level new Dovo isn't too expensive.

I purchased my first razor, a DOVO, from AOS. They said it was set to go. Well, I should say that DOVO maintains that their razors are shave ready. Well, maybe it was. Maybe it was not. At any rate I eventually sent it out to be honed by a pro. The difference was night and day. I actually cut myself really bad because it was so sharp. Yeah, I would get it honed by a pro. You can look in the classifieds. There are plenty of honers. Anyway, good look and you can get there. It just takes some time.

Just another small suggestion, if you see an area meet up, GO
Try to find a mentor! This is an incredible asset. Even if you don't talk much, hands on is an irreplaceable experience. Again, JMHO
Mike

Yep, another case of a supposedly shave-ready razor that just needs a good honing. I recommend Lynn on here, or Larry over at WhippedDog.com. I send all of my razors over to Larry and its only $15 per razor (includes return shipping). Then I keep them maintained on my barbers hone. I started shaving using a straight razor in February and already own 6 razors. I am still learning new things, but I get great shaves. Don't get discouraged. With practice and time, you'll be shaving like a pro in no time.

I like the quote....seems as if I may need another razor before I am able to hunt.

Originally Posted by TJG

Well, that kinda stinks....

Actually, it really doesn't stink.. As I said, now you know what your blade will be like when it goes out of 'spec'.

Very true. I just hope this time I won't be too daft to know.

Don't get to beat up about it. So many variables go into this at the beginning that its tough to account for all of them. Thats part of the reason people bring up the same few shops and the classifieds to every newbie, they take some of the variables like sharpness and your first stropping out of the equation.