Chan Eil Whiskers
Fumbling about.
If the samples are dried out it could affect it. For me, samples can be tricky to understand how much I’m loading and whether or not the soap is getting a fair shake. I’ve always found that the ability to load directly from a full puck to be the best way to get to know a soap. Second best way is to scoop an almond size chunk out and spread it into the bottom of a bowl.
Jim I would agree, Vespers produces abundant lather when used gently. My “heavy” comment was more to illustrate that it’s not going to be a deal breaker like Reserve. Excelsior is a very good soap base, one that will travel a long way with minimal loading. Do you plan to be a little less stingy when your full tub arrives? I’m someone who doesn’t go out of my way to over do it and try to waste lather at the end, but I appreciate a brush full of soap even after my third or fourth pass to then cover my face with.
I’ve also only used a synthetic for Vespers. Have you been getting these great results with your boars or just badgers?
John
Using the most minimal amount of Vespers I got tons of lather. When I used half that (sounds impossible) I got not quite enough lather.
Yeah, now that I have a full new tub of Vespers I'll load it more heavily, but, still, a lot less heavily than I usually do. Why waste it + too much soap mandates a huge amount of water to get the ratio right.
I use the same general method with all soaps, but also know they all have to be dialed in.
I seem to be stuck with this Manchurian brush (above) and have been since I got it. However, tomorrow I'm going to switch it up and use a different brush.
I'll switch to this Manchurian (in the photo it was brand new).
Boars? I have 'em, but I'm in a badger only phase right now. It might end at any moment. Generally I alternate every day, but right now I'm stuck on Manchurian.
Happy shaves,
Jim