Which side of the strop to use?

[Nxspam]

Hi Guys,

this is a real newbie question. I've just decide to take the plunge and go from DE shaving to straight razor shaving. I got a dovo special razor and the extra wide dovo russian type xl strop which is supposed to be good for beginners.

This strop does not have canvas or linen side. It has a slightly shiny dark patterned leather side, and what feels like light cream colored suede which seams to be smoother than the dark leather side.

So here's my first dumb question, which side do I strop on?

TIA,
-Nick.

 

[Mike H]

Welcome to B&B. We are a friendly bunch and happy to answer any question you may have. You will want to strop using the side that says Dovo. Spine leading, go slow and take your time.

http://wiki.badgerandblade.com/Stropping_Techniques

 

[Alum of Potash]

Welcome to B&B!

With Russian leather, you would normally use the "light cream colored suede" side--the one with the Dovo stamp on it. I would be very careful starting out on a nice strop like this. Perhaps it is better to practice with a cheap "starter" type strop or sheets of newspaper cut to an equal size or dull a cheap practice razor and practice your stroke beforehand, etc., as you otherwise may risk to cut the nice strop from the start.

 

[Nxspam]

Thanks Mike.

 

[Nxspam]

Thanks Alum. I promise I will take it easy. I've been watching plenty of newbie videos, but they were mainly two sided strops. I got the wide one to avoid dragging the blade on the edge.

thanks again.