X pattern on a super wide strop?

[DiVious]

I know it's frowned upon, but I purchased a 3.25"x25" B&B Magnum Leather strop, I have two questions. 1) Because the strop is wider than the blade, could I just go straight up and down as opposed to using an x pattern? 2) The strop came with two cowhide leather sides, one thick one (medium brown, face side is smooth and reverse side is rough suede like), and one thin one (dark brown, almost like low end upholstery leather, face side is more skin-feeling? than the thick one and reverse side is some sort of fuzzy man made lining I guess). Which one should I use to start and which to finish? If it's a matter of preference, opinions to the pro's and con's are welcome and appreciated.