Welcome to the forum!! Glad you've joined in.

Lifting the razor off the strop isn't a good idea, or good technique. The spine should stay in contact with the strop. Rather than trying to type it all, look through this thread and you'll find answers, videos and help on most all of your questions.

http://straightrazorpalace.com/strop...st-2012-a.html

Best Regards,

Howard