At the start it can take quite a while to complete a shave using a straight razor and this is normal. Give yourself about 6 months to get proficient as the learning curve is much longer than most would expect. Never ever get in a rush, distracted or over confident with a straight razor. If you don't have the time/can't make the time to take it slow and easy I would not bother with it. Every time I see that vid of Fast Willy I cringe a bit as I can see people trying to emulate it with some unpleasant results. That does not take away from the fact that he is pretty damned good though.
I strop the night before so the shaving takes me about 20 minutes to wet my face, load the brush, face lather and do 4 passes. The another 10 minutes to apply alum, clean, dry and strop the razor, drain the sink, clean the brush, rinse the alum and apply an AS. I am retired so enjoy a slow relaxing shave. It took me almost as long to do a single pass when learning at the start.
Yes, we do tend to over think the act of shaving and over complicate it. It is a simple act so keep it simple and leisurely to enjoy it. I'd concentrate on the basics with a straight razor like creating a very good lather, getting the angle right and using no pressure. When you do get proficient your shaves with a DE/SE should also improve. That is if you are anything like me.
Anyway, have patience and take your time. It takes what it takes and that varies with the individual.
Bob
