How to Make a Straight Razor Stropping
A reusable straight razor must be kept constantly sharp and in good condition. Because of the labor involved in keeping a straight razor well maintained, many men today prefer simpler disposable or electric razors. However, if you want an old-fashioned clean shave, you will need to keep your straight razor well sharpened. Initially a straight razor must be sharpened on a hone, like any other blade. After that it is smoothed on a canvas strop. Regular, daily stropping is done on a leather strop. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Clip or tie one end of the strop to a stable surface. Hold the other end in your left hand (or right hand, if you are left handed) with an overhand grip.
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2
Hold the razor against the strop with the blade facing the object that the strop is tied to. The blade should be at a slight angle.
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3
Pull the razor up towards your left hand, keeping the entire blade flat against the leather.
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4
Reverse direction once you get near your left hand with the razor. Use your fingers to move the blade so it is facing your left hand, but your right hand remains at the same angle.
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5
Push the blade smoothly down towards the clipped end of the strop.
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6
Hold the razor in one hand and gently press the thumb of the other hand against the blade. Move the thumb slightly down the blade. If the blade is sharp your thumb will stick slightly while moving. If an unpleasant sound is made by your thumb when moving it across the razor, repeat Steps 2 to 5. If your thumb slides smoothly across the blade, repeat Steps 2 to 5 on the canvas strop, followed by the leather strop again.
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Tips & Warnings
Apply finish to your strop regularly to keep it supple and smooth. To learn how to strop and shave with a straight razor effectively, talk to a barber friend who has practiced professionally.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/liquidlibrary/Getty Images
