I've been reading through this forum for about a good week or so now. I've seen lots of different techniques and tips, but haven't managed to find an all inclusive resource so-to-speak.

I just bought a couple of razors off ebay that don't look like they're in too bad of condition, but the blades can definitely use some restoration (scales look ok).

I've just been wondering what's the process of start to finish restoration? Do I start with sanding a blade down and restoring to a mirror shine before trying to restore the edge? Do I restore the edge first then sand?

Also, what stones are essential to get me started with edge restoration (which grits from start to stop)?

I managed to acquire a new Chicago Illinois Razor Strop yesterday at the local cutlery place and kicked myself for not getting one earlier (I was using one of the little tiny Dovo ones that came as part of a package deal from Vintage Blades). It's sooooooooooooooo much nicer to have a longer wider more professional feeling strop (leather seems nicer).

I'm sorry if this question has been posted a billion times, but I've searched (*some*) and can't seem to find what I'm looking for.