Thread: First Meeting with Mentor

My first meeting with Howard, "SirStropalot", was today and it was awesome! He and his family were very hospitable and generous. I was there all afternoon! He walked me through just about every aspect of the craft. He showed me different types of razors and explained the intricacies and how they perform and are maintained. Also, he showed me a variety of strops, and hones and gave me pointers on which to start with and which ones to later consider. After going through a lot of the equipment, and showing me how to strop, we went on to shaving. He gave me many nuggets of wisdom. A lot of typical newbie mistakes (which I probly will still end up making). To top it all off, he gave me a shave ready razor! Still can't believe it. Also, I showed up to him giving me a shipment box with shaving soap and cream sent from Mark, "MJC"! Thank you very much! I can't wait to use them. I am truly amazed at the generosity of this forum towards us rookies. Being able to sit down with Howard and talk and watch him has helped me tremendously. I highly recommend any newbie to seek out a mentor in your area. I look forward to learning more from Howard as well as everyone else on here!

Nick,

It was a true pleasure having you over today. I'm sure there was some information overload, a little honing, stropping, prep, shave technique, etc., etc. all in one afternoon. But you definitely caught on to the concepts. I look forward to our next session.

Thanks for a fun afternoon!! You did good!!

Howard

SirStrop, isn't it satisfying the see the light of discovery go on in a new shaver's eyes as he absorbs and understands what he is learning? You did good. Kudos!

Had a second session Friday with my latest new shaver. Showed him how to re-fresh an edge. Under other circumstances I would not have shown a knife/tool sharpener how to this early in their development. This man was an exception to the rule. Scientific background, extremely logical mind and knows when he is being taught to follow directions. Showed him the first steps in my method, discussed pressure needed at various stages and watched as he took one of his razors in need. Slowly and carefully went through the steps (only had to remind him to keep his elbow up six times) and then crox, linen,leather and a test shave. He was delighted, I was very pleased. Sent hi home with two other methods on paper so he can figure out which way for himself.

Again, kudos to you for a good session.

Originally Posted by Razorfeld

SirStrop, isn't it satisfying the see the light of discovery go on in a new shaver's eyes as he absorbs and understands what he is learning? You did good. Kudos!

It really is! Every member that I've helped in person has actually inspired me. I've had some of the nicest, smartest and brightest guys that I've ever met come to my home, including - College students - Petroleum Engineer major, Aero Space Engineer major, Air Force AWACS Pilot, Police Detective, etc.. We have some truly amazing members, new and old.

It's not just satisfying, it's inspiring. I always get more out of a meetup than I put in.

Best Regards,

Howard

I was fortunate enough to get to a meet up in my first week and spend an afternoon with a mentor here in my first month, this gave me such a head start on my straight razor shaving.
I echo the recommendation of nicksoks, if you are new do yourself a favor and get with a mentor I can't tell you how much it has helped me.
And to all you mentors out there thank you for what you do.
You truly inspire me.