Conditioning Kanoyama Canvas: Iwasaki

[Steve56]

Folks,

I have 2 new Kanoyama canvas just laying around and there’s always considerable discussion about how to condition one and how good it is or isn’t. But I’ve never seen anyone post about using Iwasaki’s recommended steps for linen/fabric So lets get started.

The first image is the new, unconditioned strop. As you can see, it’s hard and stiff. The second image is one that I’ve washed in a washing machine and have been using for years. Both are dry. The used one is the one that’s my daily driver and has been used to maintain the Filly 14 Sub Cero with 110 shaves on it as of yesterday morning. Ideally, Iwasaki’s steps should turn the new strop into one that’s as soft and limber as my old beater.

Here are Iwasaki’s steps for conditioning linen/fabric.

9. Linen maintenance/Preparation

1. Wash with a stiff, soapy brush

2. Remove the excess water and lay out, damp, on a table. Take a wooden mallet and tap evenly along the length of the strop using the curved side of the mallet, making sure to smooth out any creases or bends.

3. Wash with a stiff brush.

4. Rub firmly with round cosmetic soap.

5. Rub with a pumice stone to remove any fabric balls or loose threads.

6. Wash with a stiff brush.

7. Rub firmly with round cosmetic soap, again.

8. Smooth the surface with a nagura stone.

9. Rinse.

10. Let dry for two to 3 days.

11. Apply soapy lather with a brush [Shaving brush - JDR]

12. Roll firmly with a beer bottle.

Repeat 11 and 12 above three times.