Welcome to the Shave School!

[Mottern Man]

Have some questions? Well then fire away this is the place to ask but in the present time please read this thread as it may even help answer some questions for you.

The best advice I can give is to KISS (keep it simple stupid) but here is some things to help you keep it simple.

The prep:

• Take hot shower. The hot water and steam will clean and soften beard.

• Use a gentle face wash to remove dirt and oil.

• If you wish (I suggest trying this even though I don’t do it) place a washcloth/small towel in hot water then apply to face for a while like a barber would do.


Lathering soaps: (see soap (http://www.theshaveden.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1986) forum for some nice tutorials)

• Soak a Lather Bowl in hot water for a little while (a latte mug or cereal bowl will work well).

• Submerge brush into warm water for a while.

• Remove brush from water and let it drain until dripping stops: NOTE you still want a wet brush but not a dripping wet brush.

• Swirl brush on soap clockwise, counter clock, and side to side using light downward pressure. You may also pump the brush up and down gently.

• Drain water out of Lather Bowl and swirl soap loaded brush in bowl using a clockwise, counter clockwise, and side to side motion. You may also pump the brush up and down gently. Add small amounts of water to the bowl and repeat swirling until you get a consistency of freshly beaten egg whites (meringue).

• Apply with brush using a circular or painting motion (try both to see what you prefer). Be sure not to press the brush on your face too hard, this may cause irritation and shorten the life of your brush. I suggest if you want scrubbing action that you use a Pure or Best badger brush and not a Fine or Silvertip brush. Boar hair brushes also work well for scrubbing.


Lathering creams: (see cream (http://www.theshaveden.com/forum/showthread.php?p=96228#post96228) forum for some nice tutorials)

• Soak a Lather Bowl in hot water for a little while (a latte mug or cereal bowl will work well).

• Submerge brush into warm water for a little while.

• Remove brush from water and let it drain until dripping stops: NOTE you still want a wet brush but not a dripping wet brush.

• Drain water out of Lather Bowl and place an almond sized dollop of cream in bowl. Swirl brush in bowl using a clockwise, counter clockwise, and side to side motion. You may also pump the brush up and down gently. Add small amounts of water to the bowl and repeat swirling until you get a consistency of freshly beaten egg whites (meringue).

• Apply with brush using a circular or painting motion (try both to see what you prefer). Be sure not to press the brush on your face too hard, this may cause irritation and shorten the life of your brush. I suggest if you want scrubbing action that you use a Pure or Best badger brush and not a Fine or Silvertip brush. Boar hair brushes also work well for scrubbing.


The shave:

• Make sure you use a fresh, sharp blade or a freshly stropped straight razor (one that has been honed by a pro).

• Shave with the grain of the hair check the grain so you know what way WTG is. Make sure to use no pressure what so ever, let the razor do the work. If you are using a straight be sure to really stretch that skin to make a flat shaving surface. If you are using a DE a little stretching is needed but not too much.

• Rinse face with warm water, you may do more shaving passes with, across, and against the grain if you like. For beginners I suggest not doing anymore then 2 with grain passes until you get a feel for your shave and then you may try across and against grain passes.


Aftershave: (see aftershave (http://www.theshaveden.com/forum/showthread.php?t=6401) forum for different types)

• Rinse well with cold water to wash off excess soap and/or cream, it will also it will close pores and sooth skin.

• Apply your favorite aftershave at this time.


Can’t miss starter kits/gear even for experienced wet shaves:

• Razors: Merkur Hefty Classic, Gillette Super Speed, Gillette Tech, and for straights a new PRE-HONED Dovo 5/8 Round Point, remember you will need a strop too. The reason I say new is that you may not know what to look for on Ebay or Flea markets yet until you get some learning under your belt. You can also visit the Shopping forum and ask/browse for a shave ready straight, I am sure one of our many members can hook you up and you will get a fair shake.

• Go for the sample pack of blades to find the blade that works for you. Examples: westcoastshaving.com, razorandbrush.com, and connaughtshaving.com.

• The Crabtree and Evelyn Best Badger Brush ($35 Dollar) is a great starter but be warned the drawing power to acquire more brushes is strong as with razors.

• The Shave Den Soaps, cheapest on the market and arguably the best for homemade soap. Not that I intend to advertise the Shave Den’s store but well it is my opinion either way. Other soap makers I recommend, QED, Olivia, Soapbuddy, Suzie's Bubbles, Mama Bear, Honey Bee Spa, Saint Charles Shave, The Gentleman's Quarter, Pirates Cove, and Tryphon all site links can be found here (http://www.theshaveden.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1463).

• Cheap and good creams would be... Proraso, Musgo Real, Erasmic, Kiss My Face, Tom's of Maine, and JM Fraser. All are highly recommended by me.

• Aftershave, go to the drug store (yes I said that).

Aqua Velva
Skin Bracer
Old Spice
Pinaud Clubman
Brut
Nivea Aftershave Balm
Masters Bay Rum (Sally’s Beauty Supply)

• If you feel like moving up I would suggest the following.

Tabac Shaving Soap
De Vergulde Hand Shaving Soap
Taylor of Old Bond Street Shaving Cream
Salter’s Shaving Cream
...............We could be here a while

But don't take my word for it. Visit the review (http://www.theshaveden.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=48) section to see what other members have to say.



Remember, none of this is scripture. Shaving is a very YMMV thing. Never be afraid to try something different and make sure you report your findings.

[moviemaniac]

You're on a tutorial-spree, Will - very nice and great advice! :D

[Bronco]

Excello! Nice job!

[Scorpio]

couple of things I do different but all in all a good job!!!

Raf

[Mottern Man]

couple of things I do different but all in all a good job!!!

Raf

I beg to differ on what you differ.

Please add to the thread Raf. :D

[Scorpio]

I beg to differ on what you differ.

Please add to the thread Raf. :D

This is what I do, of course, I do not use any face wash before shaving. In my opinion I think that removing the oils from the face may hinder the shave. If your face is very oily then a face wash might be a good thing to do. I let the soap I am using to shave do the work of also cleaning my face. Face washes dry my skin.

I also would not recommend the use of any conditioner in an attempt to soften your stubble. Apply hot wet towels or splash face with hot water to soften the stubble.

I use my own shaving soaps plus a few other name brands and of course...no Velva:D

Again, this is just what I do in my routine as in no way intended to be taken as gospel of shaving.

Raf

[Scorpio]

Also, as of recent it has been my experience that new factory Dovo's are very close to shave ready. The few I have had the opportunity to examine and test have required very little or no touch up at all. Still, I would have someone that know what they are doing take look at the edge before shaving with them.

Raf

[Mottern Man]

This is what I do, of course, I do not use any face wash before shaving. In my opinion I think that removing the oils from the face may hinder the shave. If your face is very oily then a face wash might be a good thing to do. I let the soap I am using to shave do the work of also cleaning my face. Face washes dry my skin.

I also would not recommend the use of any conditioner in an attempt to soften your stubble. Apply hot wet towels or splash face with hot water to soften the stubble.

I use my own shaving soaps plus a few other name brands and of course...no Velva:D

Again, this is just what I do in my routine as in no way intended to be taken as gospel of shaving.

Raf

See now don't you feel better. :happy102

I don't do the conditioner thing either (I think it makes my beard hair stronger).

The not washing the face before hand may be looking into. Strong work from Latino Heeeeeeeeeeeat as always. :cool:

[shavingidiot savant]

Hi there, and congratulations for looking at an alternative shaving system. We all have our reasons for wanting to make a change, and there's already lots of threads on that subject. Skin problems, expense (cartridges), even boredom can be motivating factors to find what else is out there.
I'd just like to mention two things that are extremely important that you'll need to know right away.........even before a sharp, naked blade touches your face.
First thing, you need to prepare your face correctly. Your beard needs to be softened to minimize the friction when whacking em. I know, your cartridge razor doesn't require nearly as much prep time. This step is mandatory if you want a comfortable DE (or single edge injector) shaving experience.
The good news is it's easy, and takes almost no time. Use wet hot towels on your face for 1-2 minutes. That's it! You may very well not need anything else, such as pre shave oils or things like that. That's my only prep, and it makes a HUGE difference in my shave quality. This type of shaving CAN'T be rushed.....and the rewards can be a real kick. Hehe, you may have to fight the temptation to shave faster (in the beginning), but that will pass after a while. No need to rush something that ends too quickly as it is.........hehe.
The second thing before actually shaving would be learning what makes a good lather. You can practice whipping up batches.......see what's involved there. Soaps or creams are both easy to work with, so take your choice.....or try both! They're each fun to use, and both types have their fans. Whichever you decide on, stick with only one for a while until your technique improves.
The reason you need a proper lather is simple. Unlike cartridge systems, there's no lube strip to help things slide along without pulling. It's just a sharp, naked, exposed blade that's gonna be waltzing around your face, and you need something to protect yourself from serious damage. Razor burn, nicks, weepers, and worse can occur when using lousy lather.
Hehe, the problem is......you don't have a reference point yet, as to what that feels and acts like. No, Foamy or Edge gel will not quite work in this case. You want to improve your chances as best you can, and a brush/lather combo is your best bet for success. Sure, you can use canned foam, but the shave won't be the same.
A fast test for good lather is just to shave a few strokes with whatever cartridge you're comfortable with. Hehe, if THAT doesn't feel right, then you need to tweak your lather. The cartridge should just fly over your face, or at least feel as good as it does using foam. Remember, a DE razor isn't nearly as forgiving as a Mach3 will be. Easy eh?
If you don't start out your shave right, you can't play catch up later with a sharp blade. I guess that's the point, which probably coulda been made a lot quicker......heh.
Anyway, I hope that helps one or two of you.
Martin

Sheeesh! Will? Would you mind moving this to that section (shave school) you recently created? That's a better spot for this........didn't even see that thread of yours.
Thanks

[Queen of Blades]

Nice post, Martin! :happy088

Thanks!

[moviemaniac]

Very informative, Martin! ::

[Mottern Man]

Sheeesh! Will? Would you mind moving this to that section (shave school) you recently created? That's a better spot for this........didn't even see that thread of yours.
Thanks

As you wish and a very informative post, Martin. :cool:

[soapbuddy]

Very informative post; thank you!

[shavingidiot savant]

Hi there new shaver,
I wanted to congratulate you on deciding to at least try another type of shaving. You'll find all sorts of info here at TSD, as well as the other shaving forums. It's up to each of us when deciding how much of this 'hobby' we care to buy into, and I can tell you that rabbit hole can be a deep one.
Now, you're gonna see lots of tips on how to improve your shave, and most things I'll agree with. However,there's a few things I personally don't believe to be true. I may be wrong though, and I'm willing to listen to reason....heh. I try to keep an open mind.
Then, there's some traps a new shaver can fall into, and maybe I can help avoid that. I don't claim to be an expert of any kind......just my opinion and you can take it for whatever it's worth.
Ok then...here we go.

When first purchasing a razor and brush, there's no need to spend a lot of cash. Don't go for the razor that's pricey but looks the nicest, and no need for the biggest, softest, and most expensive brush. A razor's price and looks does not reflect shave quality.........how the thing performs, in other words. Read up on what the various razor's characteristics are, and then make an informed, rather than impulsive decision on what's right to start with.
Also, do NOT buy a shaving set. Take the time to properly pick out a brush that suits your needs, and there's certainly no need to buy a set with a bowl. You're gonna want to pick out a bowl that best suits you, and the ones in the sets aren't usually what members prefer.

Same thing's true with a decent brush. You won't need to spend $100....not even half that much....and the brush you buy will still be one that's nice (and effective) to use for years. Later, when you know what kind of brush you like, then pop for the extra cash on one with the feel you like. Otherwise, if you don't research brushes, it's easy to spend serious cash on something that's too big or too small for you..........too stiff or too floppy. Yeah, those are things that only experience can really teach you.

Next thing would be the YMMV (your mileage may vary) thingy. You're gonna read many conflicting reviews or opinions on products and ideas. I still read members posts, and can't believe some feel so differently as I do about blades, shaving soaps, razors.....that sorta stuff. You can use those reviews or ideas as a guide, but this type of shaving is a lot of trial and error. Hehe, it IS very gratifying when it all comes together, but you gotta pay your dues when learning a new skill.

Now, one thing you will constantly see in the member's thoughts on using razors is this: "No pressure should be exerted on the razor when shaving........let the razor and blade do all the work". Unfortunately, that's really not true, or not in my case anyway. I found some lighter razors such as a superspeed incapable of getting a few tough spots on my chin, unless I 'helped' the razor along a little. Yep, I'd have to bear down a bit so that the blade wouldn't skip or chatter. That no pressure thing is....well, I just don't think that's a good generalization to make. There ARE razor/blade combos that do perform that way (no pressure needed) for me, but very few.
I find the heavier razors have the best chance of providing that quality. The extra bit of weight and the way it's distributed, combined with a very sharp blade, does almost totally eliminate any need for pressure of any kind. Hehe, no, I'm not saying the weight (or even the razor I use) will make the shave better for YOU.....gotta remember that YMMV thingy. Oh, I should mention that because injectors weigh so little, they definitely need a little extra helping hand at times. That's a part of the technique needed to learn to avoid razor burn....how much pressure to use while shaving.

Warning for new member Merkur razor owners!!!!!! You have two choices deciding what blade to start with. Your Merkur should come with a blade(s) by the same name. You can either try that blade, or try another one that may be more suited to your face. There's 4-5 very popular brands always recommended by members, but Merkur isn't one of em. If you bought a pack of em, you can use those and perfect your technique. Try em for a few weeks and get a good reference point for how they feel and perform. Than maybe try a different type blade, and you should notice a change in some way. Maybe the merkur will feel better, maybe the new one will.........trial and error, remember? I'll just say that some members really like the merkur blades, but most don't. You will be amazed when you find the blades best suited for your face.

One last idea and I'm done. That would be to keep in mind that using a cartridge or injector razor is fine with us here. The idea is to somehow make shaving an enjoyable thing, instead of something you're resigned to putting up with forever. 'Whatever works' is the name of the game.........YMMV is the one constant in this shaving universe......heh. The one thing you WILL need though, is a brush and soap or cream. Then...you need to learn how to use em right. That alone will make a big difference in shaving quality, with whatever is used to whisker whack.
Well, maybe I'll add something later, if anything else floats to the surface, or maybe other members might like to add their own thoughts about just starting out.
Hope that helps in some way,
Martin

[mastermute]

Great post Martin! Inspirational and very well written!

[Peppery John]

Great post.

Really enjoyed reading it, Like a breath of fresh air.

[Michael]

Well said, Martin. The problem I see though, is that it's impossible to know what's right for you - without trying different products. For me, a Superspeed sucks. I don't know why, it just does. Merkurs, Gillette Super Adjustables, Fat Boys work well for me, but they began doing so only recently. I went through a very long period of time where the only razor I could get a decent shave with (other than the M3) was the Merkur, and even that was hit or miss. Now, they all work well except the SS.

As for brushes, how does one know what they like without trying several different ones. How do you know you like scrubby if you've never tried it? Or floppy? Or scratchy? To be sure, any BRUSH will lather anyTHING. I have scrubby, floppy and middle-of-the-road brushes and they all make lather out of any of the 2-3 dozen soaps and creams I have. The stiffer ones work a bit FASTER with soaps...but not any better.

How do I know that? I bought about a dozen brushes! The least expensive was the $35 C&E BBB (since sold). A great brush to be sure and many would be perfectly content with that one brush. I think my favorite brush is the Simpson T2 (though I wish the socket was a bit longer). Rather dense and scrubby. Others may prefer the Kent line. Considerably less dense - and it's a fact...NO ONE would ever accuse them of being scrubby. Still, you won't know what YOU like until you try a few.

Which can get expensive...my brushes cost anywhere from $35 to $180. However, if you can spring for a few selected brushes over time (based on what you think you will like), those that don't meet your needs can be fairly easily sold, for a reasonably high percentage of the original cost. Around here, there always seems to be a market for a gently used brush. Just because YOU don't like it doesn't mean it's not PERFECT for someone else. There's that "YMMV" expression again.

Blades? Who knows? Now that I've finally figured out how to do this, I really don't notice much difference. Except the first shave with a Feather can yield a nick or two. I get about a week out of Feathers, Derbys, Crystals...Perfect shaves from one and all. I'll have to give Merkurs and Sharps another try. I think I still have a few around somewhere (unless I gave ALL of my Sharps to JoAnna).

As for soaps and creams, as far as I'm concerned, the scent's the thing. I am partial to TSD products, but really, I don't have a single soap or cream that I can't lather or that doesn't lubricate well. Some just smell nicer. You like the scent of roses? Buy a rose product - any rose product. You can spend a few dollars - or $50+. If you like the scent, you'll be fine. Except Caswell-Massey which barely lathers at all.

One point I DO have to argue with is the pressure thing. I struggled with this for MONTHS, never realizing that my problem was pressure. It got so bad that I actually gave up on DE shaving and picked up a straight. Cool and all, but I don't have an hour to spare every morning. Well worth the experience though, because I was so worried about cutting myself, I forced myself to apply virtually NO PRESSURE. When I gave up on the hour-long ritual (that never did result in a satisfactory shave) and went back to a DE, I found that the lesson I had learned about pressure carried over in my DE shaves. I barely feel the razor now. Just the edge of the blade skimming over my face. When I'm done, I have a BBS shave with NO irritation.

So endeth MY novel. YMMV. :)

[Bronco]

Nicely said gentlemen.

[Mottern Man]

Holy cow fellas.

Starting to read like War and Peace around here.


Great posting though... :D

[Michael]

Holy cow fellas.

Starting to read like War and Peace around here.


Great posting though... :D

Thanks.

Regards,
Leo

[shavingidiot savant]

Hi All,
Michael? I agree with just about everything you said, but gimme a minute here.
I had to laugh when I saw John's post....not about the post itself, but the time it took for his first one. Hehe, you remind me of me, John! Took me a good 7-8 months of lurking before I said a word. Thank you for the response, and I'll take that as a compliment. Thanks also to Johan, who's always so supportive of other members. I haven't used the straight you graciously sent me yet, but I take it outta the box sometimes and touch it a little. Is that wrong?
I enjoyed reading your post Michael, and we're on the same page about having to try things yourself. Razors, brushes, blades, and even soaps and creams all can behave differently for us. You know, I can't imagine finding the right combo immediately...it would have to be sheer dumb luck. Yep, you gotta try a bunch of things to get to that point. And that 'point' is the reference to other products that's developed from using em. As you know, it's something only experience can provide. So yeah, not all razors will shave the same, etc.
But........what I'm suggesting is to minimize the extremes when picking out a first set of shaving tools. It seems like some razors are known to be very mild (Weishi), and some more aggressive (slant) than most other DE razors. I'd start with a more 'normal' type...........one that fits many people's face.
Same thing with a brush. Hehehehehe, I think you have a fondness for the Kent, if I'm not mistaken. Well, they have their own charms, but NOT if you want a stiff brush. Same thing with an expensive brush like a two banded Tulip. They're known for they're kinda unique bit of scrubbiness, from what I've read. So, start with that C&E brush you mentioned, or maybe a nice Savile Row from Charles in 'super' for a few bucks more (still under $50).
Use it for a while, and then figure out what might best suit your face if you were to get another one. Find out what may be lacking by using a 'normal' product as a reference point.
Blades are the same thing........sharper doesn't mean better as you know. Makes more sense to me to use a derby or crystal to start with.........a mild yet popular blade. Once again, that's to get a feel for what might work for your next blade.
Oh....that pressure thing? Looks like you're using (and getting much better results from) heavier razors when compared to the superspeed. Could the extra weight, or the way it's distributed (or both) possibly be helping in keeping from any use of pressure? Reason I ask, is that's how it is for me. Using a superspeed just didn't give me that effortless shave I was hoping for. Too much feedback from the thing while shaving, plus it just wasn't heavy enough to use NO pressure at times. Sure, I coulda gotten used to it, and adjusted my technique, but why? It still would never FEEL right to me.
Seems like aggressive razors tend to be on the heavy side. I think there's something about that weight which helps cause that. Hehe, of course there's more to it than that, but you get my meaning. I know that in my case, it's a crucial part of the mix for my 'perfect' razor.
Anyway, I'm really glad you figured things out with the DE. It surprised me a while back when you mentioned the problems you'd been having. Turned out to be the razor (SS), plus too much pressure eh? I'm happy you stayed with it. Hehe, I had the same problem with my first injectors........about tore my face up. Turned out it was the wrong type for my face.
Whewwww, I think I'm done.
Nice typing at you,
Martin

[Michael]

My eyes hurt! :D

[Peppery John]

I post on B@B and lurk over here. Your post inspired me to reply :D

I'm a former DE shaver from the 70's, returning just short of a year ago to a different way of shaving, but one that we greatly prefer.

Kenny.

[Michael]

I post on B@B and lurk over here. Your post inspired me to reply :D

I'm a former DE shaver from the 70's, returning just short of a year ago to a different way of shaving, but one that we greatly prefer.

Kenny.

Which post? "My eyes hurt?" :D

Welcome to The Shave Den, Kenny!! Good to have you with us!

[mastermute]

Welcome Kenny! Glad to have you here!

[shavingidiot savant]

Hi again, new guys,
It just hit me that I didn't mention another myth when it comes to this 'hobby'. If you think you're gonna save money on cartridges, you are correct! You can also forget about paying for any Foamy or Edge, or whatever it is you have now.
Nice to have that extra cash eh? Yeah.....that's what almost all of us thought at one time............how much money we'd be saving. Hehe, the more seasoned members are laughing at that I'd bet.
Actually, it CAN be true, but maybe not right away (or ever). First you'll need to spend about $80- $100 for the right tools. Figure a razor and some blades, a brush, bowl, some shaving soap or cream, and you're good to go. The razor and decent brush will last for years, and the soaps and blades are normally inexpensive to replace. Done deal!
The blades I use cost a quarter (4-5 shaves per blade), the soaps are very little cost per use, and so yeah.....NOW the shaves are almost free. In addition, each part of my shaving 'set' works better than any other things I've found in the past. Yep........just exactly what I was looking for when I started this 'hobby'.
Hehe, the thing is.........it took a while to get there. Time AND cash! Long story short, I can't begin to tell you how many hundreds of dollars MORE I've spend on wetshaving things, rather than those 'expensive' M3 cartridges I was used to shaving with in another lifetime. I even think a few other members might have had similar experiences.......heh.
No, I won't go into detail now about how many razors or soaps I have (and am still acquiring) but you can kinda get the idea. Well, it IS nice to have a few things to choose from.
So.... one of THE biggest myths is this shaving thingy saving you some cash any time soon (if ever). That just not how this 'hobby' usually works. I know some new readers are shaking their heads......thinking about how foreign that sounds...it'll never happen to them. Yeah, I was like that a looooong time ago.
Martin

[Michael]

Spoilsport. :rolleyes:

[shavingidiot savant]

Spoilsport. :rolleyes:

Hiya,
Think that post was a bit much? Hehe, should I have waited a while till they're hooked in and THEN spring it? Naaah, it ain't gonna happen to 95% of the new shavers. Having more than one or two razors or soaps (or brushes) is plenty for almost all us 'hobbyists'. There now........better?
But I guess I shoulda mentioned some of the trade off that makes the cash seem so well spent. You mentioned how important the soap or cream fragrance is to you....what it adds to your shave. I also like to use a soap or cream that smells great, and performs the same way. Luckily, (and through trial and error) I've come up with 6-8 'regulars' in my small rotation that fit the bill as described.
New shavers are gonna be amazed at all the wonderful choices available to em....any scent they can think of is available from some vendors. They can even make their own very easily using their favorite cologne or EdT that's added to an unscented base. To me, having all those choices is FUN!
Ok......I tried to soften things a little.......not that it matters (laughing here at that). Some members may just end up changing nothing more than switching over to using a brush and soap, and that's fine. Others may become a little more 'enthusiastic', but that hardly ever happens..........
Martin

[Padron]

Great thread gents, a very good read.

Welcome Kenny, great to have you here. :)


Neale

[Queen of Blades]

Great thread gents, a very good read.

Welcome Kenny, great to have you here. :)



+1 all around. ;)

And Martin and Michael? I'll be sending my eye dr bills to you two. :p

[freebird]

What, no mention of straights? :shocked003

[-PO-]

Great post with great info, So where were you a week ago!!! LOL Yes I bought the kit but what I got was good for the money and found the one I wanted, you are right about the savings part, I have already spent more in one week than I have in one year on cartridge shaving. :happy102 This is just like my Cigar collecting :happy102 Can't wait to buy more sooooo let me see which scuttle do I buy :happy102:eek:

[shavingidiot savant]

What, no mention of straights? :shocked003

Hi there,
Oh, I think Michael 'mentioned' using one of those briefly in a previous post.........
Hehe, actually, I could mention just a few things about first starting out using a straight. Sadly, it won't be from personal experience, but I HAVE done some reading up on various forums. Feel free to add any other tips you think are appropriate.
Once again, I wouldn't buy a razor for mostly looks, or assume it's a good one for me because it's an expensive model. I've seen way too many new members buying a purty lookin straight that just doesn't suit em. They really don't have a reference point yet, so they're basically buying blind using that method. As you know, there's numerous different grinds, blade sizes and points, etc. As an example, you won't know if a full hollow grind is even gonna work on your face.........even though it may 'sing' like an angel........heh.
I'd also make a point of spending time at www.straightrazorplace.com ......reading and asking questions. What a great resource for straight users, and it's a well run site. Very helpful bunch of 'hobbyists' over there.
Then, I'd definitely grab a copy of Lynn's (the above shaving forum's owner) DVD on straights. Never seen it, but lots of members recommend that thing.
Then.....and this IS actually a good myth to dispel........after buying a razor , I'd send it to someone for final sharpening!!!!!!!!! This is REALLY important for a new shaver to understand. Even though a straight may well be advertised as being 'shave ready' right outta the box...it WON'T be sharp enough (or sharpened properly) to use comfortably.
Man..........I've seen that typical new member post countless times. You know, the one that starts " My new Dovo or Wapi or TI, etc, just arrived and I tried shaving with it." Sigh...that never ends up very well.
Ok.....that's about the limit of my knowledge, but I know there's many members who use one of those regularly. I'd welcome any other thoughts on what to avoid when starting out, since it's just a matter of time (for me). It's that damn honing and stropping thingy stopping me mostly...........just not quite motivated enough.....yet.
Freebird? Thanks for bringing that up,
Martin

[shavingidiot savant]

[QUOTE=-PO-;106577]Great post with great info, So where were you a week ago!!! LOL Yes I bought the kit but what I got was good for the money and found the one I wanted, you are right about the savings part, I have already spent more in one week than I have in one year on cartridge shaving.


Hi there,
I gotta say I like your attitude........heh.
I'm glad you posted for a few reasons. First, I wanted to kinda soften my previous comments on buying a shaving set, and this is good timing. Whatever kit you got should be perfectly fine for daily use. Don't worry about maybe not have the exact set up you'll probably end up with, since we all go through that anyway...........heh. I'd bet the the brush and razor you have will be very fun to use, and you'll be developing that reference point for the future.
Hehe, yeah, sounds like you got that 'savings' part about right. Matter of fact, here's another good way to 'save' money with this 'hobby'.
When making an order for something specific, ALWAYS put a few extra things in that you're curious to try. It's a superb way to 'save on shipping'!!!!!
Yeah, you're gonna feel good as you walk down the various stores shaving aisle, knowing you won't be shelling out any more cash for expensive cartridges. Yep, this shaving thing we do here is sure a good deal..............
Good luck on your shaving journey,
Martin

[Michael]

I have no further comments. Can't afford the eye doctor bills. :)

[-PO-]

[QUOTE=-PO-;106577]Great post with great info, So where were you a week ago!!! LOL Yes I bought the kit but what I got was good for the money and found the one I wanted, you are right about the savings part, I have already spent more in one week than I have in one year on cartridge shaving.


Hi there,
I gotta say I like your attitude........heh.
I'm glad you posted for a few reasons. First, I wanted to kinda soften my previous comments on buying a shaving set, and this is good timing. Whatever kit you got should be perfectly fine for daily use. Don't worry about maybe not have the exact set up you'll probably end up with, since we all go through that anyway...........heh. I'd bet the the brush and razor you have will be very fun to use, and you'll be developing that reference point for the future.
Hehe, yeah, sounds like you got that 'savings' part about right. Matter of fact, here's another good way to 'save' money with this 'hobby'.
When making an order for something specific, ALWAYS put a few extra things in that you're curious to try. It's a superb way to 'save on shipping'!!!!!
Yeah, you're gonna feel good as you walk down the various stores shaving aisle, knowing you won't be shelling out any more cash for expensive cartridges. Yep, this shaving thing we do here is sure a good deal..............
Good luck on your shaving journey,
Martin

Thanks Martin, yeah I already bought a new brush and am looking into buying another. Ordered the Dirty Bird Scuttle and am researching another razor, and they call this a hobby :happy102 :D

[Mottern Man]

Thread merged... Trying to keep all the good stuff in one spot. :D

[chasro]

Useful info. Thanks.

[Misha]

Thanx for the info!

YMMV (your mileage may vary)

I thought it meant Your Mug May Vary :D