Hey mantic great vids. I have one question. May seem kinda dumb but i got the 4 elements of the perfect shave from the art of shaving. Is the pre shaving oil neccessary? If so how do you use it? Thanks.
hey there, i use the art of shaving shave cream and love it...havee a small thing of sandalwood and full size tub of lemon i just got today. i use a bowl and their brush, but I don't ever get a thick white lather, just a small white "coating" over my face....how does this affect my shave? and how do I fix it? one thing i may not have been doing is adding water or having enough on the badger brush...
How do I build lather with Proraso shave cream, the one that comes in the green bowl? I swish the brush in it a little but when I try to make a lather in a bowl it doesn't seem to get very thick. Please help. Thanks!
@jpfeifer2 you probably need to swirl the brush around for a longer time. It might also help to moisten the soap in the bowl with a little hot water to "loosen" it a little bit.
@H4rdstyl30wns yes, it has really helped with my razor burn. since every face is different, you might not need it. personally, I find it really helpful.
I'm having a hard time building lather at all. I bought a boar hair brush and soap from Walgreens. It's just very thin, and while my cheeks and face feel better so far, everything under the chin still just feels hacked up. Whatever lather I add to the face just ends up dripping off. Is that too much water, or low quality products?
@bopeuph I have a special video just for the cheap video & soap you find at places like Wallgreens. Check my video channel page for the 3-part video titled "How To Use The 'Premium' Shave Kit." Basically, you need to start with a relatively dry brush and load it heavily with soap. Start applying to your face until you have something that kind of looks like school glue. Then dip the tips of the brush in water, continue lathering. It may take a few minutes but the lather will start to build.
@mantic59 Thanks! That helped a lot. I still am not happy with the lather just yet, but I think I used too much water again. But, it was MUCH thicker than the last few days. So, I just need to remember less water and more soap. The face feels much better, and I imagine it will feel even better once I get my safety razor and stop using the Mach 3. It's time for new blades anyway, and getting a vintage one on eBay and buying the blades is actually cheaper than buying a new box of cartridges.
I build up a nice lather and apply it just as you show here. But what do I do in subsequent passes? Do I work the brush in bowl some more and re-lather? I always find that my lathers for the 2nd and 3rd passes don't go on as thick as the first pass. Is this normal? Thank you.
@IRONxMortlock yes a slightly thinner lather is normal. Whether you want to re-work the brush in the bowl depends on how much is left in the brush. (I usually give it a couple swirls just to keep the lather warm)
Wanted to let you know that I really enjoy your videos and have become a HUGE traditional shaving advocate! That being said, I have had issues with having a tough beard and sensitive skin. This seems to be a common trait with shavers who hate to shave. Anyway, I recently started using Proraso's Pre/Post shave cream to soften and prep my face, then apply my cream on top if it! IT TOTALLY ROCKS! You might suggest that to people who have a similar issue. Thanks again!
I realize that the shaving creams, the ones compressed in metal cans, dry on my face and it ends up irritating or cutting my skin when I use it with safety razors. Could you tell me if the lather you made dries as fast as the "goo" or how long does it take until it dries?
I just ordered the 34c, a silvertip brush, Truefitt & Hill Luxury Shave Soap Bowl, Truefitt & Hill Ultimate Comfort Pre-shave Oil, Truefitt & Hill 1805 Aftershave Balm and 10x feather blades. Does that sound any good?
@Vintervilan Very nice setup! But you may want to hold off on using the Feather blades until you become comfortable with your new gear. Try some other blade brands first.
@Vintervilan Sounds like you have spent a little too much on your starter kit... Silvertip is a superfluous luxury for a beginner, but now that you have it: take good care of it and only use it on Sundays. For your everyday shaves, just get a nice omega boar, that's good enough. Sunday really is the day for shaving luxury, so hold on to your silvertip, just so you can fully appreciate the soft luxurious feel of it. The 34C is definitely ok, the soap sounds a bit expensive...
@Vintervilan I second what mantic59 states about holding off on the Feather blades. I use them, but they're not for beginners. I think it's best to transition to Feather blades after you can successfully shave without nicks or cuts with more standard blades. If you still want to use the Feather blades, use downstrokes only until you're getting a nick and/or cut less shave. Then add a diagonal downstroke. When you can do both of these, add a upward angle and finally the artful upstroke. PATIENCE!
@bsmyn0708 Sorry, it was a "semi-custom," limited-edition run for the "shavemyface(dot)com" forum a few years ago. The closest brush to it is probably Rooney's "Style 3, Medium, Super Silvertip"
hey mantic, im just about to buy and try my first safety razor. i have decided on these items that im getting from Amazon:
Proraso Shaving Soap
7AM Platinum DE blades
Tweezermans Badger Bristle brush
Merkur #180 Long Handled Safety Razor
sound like a good setup? btw, i have a cool soap mug that was used by my great-grandfather that im really looking forward to using. how should i go about transferring the soap over to the mug? should i scoop it out of the container and then heat it in the mug?
@BigBonelessJerk sorry for the late reply. Yes, that sounds like a good beginner's set up. I dont know if you can transfer the soft proraso soap to your mug though, you'll just have to try it and see what happens.
I have a couple of questions and i would be very happy if you could answer them
I'm new to wet-shaving, and I'm about to order the pretty basic shaving soap wich called Williams Mug Shaving Soap
since this is a bar soap, my questions is where to place it while making a lather with my brush? does it required a special mug that i should order with the soap? or i can just search a large glass in my home and make the lather inside it?
@vegeta816 I would suggest not getting Williams just yet. Its not particularly bad but it can be very difficult to lather for the new shaver. Your Youtube profile says you are in Israel so I would suggest looking for Arko, Palmolive, or Derby locally. Otherwise if you are going to order online you have many more products to choose from.
Ah ^_^ I find it a lot easier making a good lather by swirling the brush in the tub than I did just scooping out a bit. Thanks mantic. Your videos are a godsend to a teenager like me looking for a little bit of manliness, luxury and tradition in life.
@abdul456 Look for crystal rock deodorants online. A simple solid crystal of potassium alum is the same whether its for shaving or marketted as for deodorant use. The deodorant ones also tend to be MUCH cheaper and larger.
@mantic59 So many great video resources for shaving- thank you!
This is a riddle: I got a high quality badger brush and I can get a thick lather on the brush itself (I can squeeze it out as you show) but in spite of this, it is hard to build thicker lather on the face. I'm pushing too hard against my face (I don't think). Maybe I am used to the thickness of canned shaving cream and it's in my head?
Ever since I started having to shave regularly, it's been a horrible chore of shaving, waiting for the razor burn to heal, and shaving again. I've spent hundreds on different razors, electric and multiblade. When I tried to grow a neat beard, it looked, as my boss described it, more "homeless" than "neat." In the recent past, I came across one of your videos and decided to bite the bullet and buy a basic DE razor, brush, and it has changed everything. Thank you so much!
Hi, I just wanted to thank you for all the helpful tutorials :) I still suck at getting the lather right, but the shave is still 500 times better than a 3 blade with barbasol!
hi mantic, i just shaved with a badger brush and shaving soap for the first time, but i couldn't get a thick lather. i whisked like crazy, added more water, added more soap, but i couldn't get the whipped-cream style... what could i be doing wrong?
Today, after butchering and burning the hell out of my face due to making lather that was as watery as a corona, I finally went and looked up how to do it right. This video was a godsend. I am definitely a fan of the palm method now! Now if only my safety razor would come in the mail. . .
Just tried the face lathering method. Worked great until I remade the lather for a 4th pass (3rd pass was against the grain). Burns like hell! But decent method for a 2-3 pass shave.
what exactly am i looking for in the lather to know when its hydrated enough and ready to apply...its just that i cant really tell the difference when you periodically stop stirring and show the lather on the brush....i like your videos, they're a big help and pretty funny
Mantic, your videos are recomennded all over forums! Please explain to us all what are the advantages of the soap over the cream? Soap sure lasts way longer and turns out way cheaper and handy, I just wonder why I cannot create a thick lather for a hyper-sensitive skin with an expensive soap, but I can do it with the cheapest cream and a cheap pure badger brush.Soap or cream is best for the skin, I mean only true class soaps like Penhaligon, Tabac, and I see Taylor`s cream and soap look the same
@FIxt00l soaps vs. creams is largely personal preference. Soaps generally tend to cut a little closer and creams tend to be slightly more cushioning but these are subtleties.
Hi Manic. I do have a full beard and mustache, so the only areas that I shave is my neck and I keep running into the same problem. I do the 3 pass just on my neck but no matter what direction I go, I always have some kind of stubble around my Adams Apple which is very difined and around my chin line just below my ears. Can you help? Thanks.
@StringZ71 try swallowing and "holding" the swallow. you won't be able to really hold it long of course but it should be just long enough to flatten the area a bit and shave over your adams apple
Great videos. But you are missing something I think you should include. HAve you ever used Shave Secret?
Nothing I have ever used compares to how good this works. Please try it. I would like to know your opinion on it. You can find it Wal-Mart. I was skeptical when I bought it. I only bought because I read the reviews on Amazon. Check it out.
mantic, i have been de shaving for about two weeks now. I have a tweezerman badger brush and some col. conk bay rum soap. Can I expect that kind of lather when building directly on the face?
Thanks so much for the time and effort you have taken to demonstrate these time honored traditions. Your videos have been extraordinarily informative for me! I am making the move from expensive throw-away razors to a DE Gillete 1950's model I picked up at a local flea market.
My question: What is the brand of lather you are using?? I noticed it is a black tube. I only have a Wal-Mart and a CVS available near me. I am hoping I can pick something up there.
hey mantic when i use shaving soap, is it ok to build the lather in the same cup i have the cake in or better to have a separate bowl/cup to build the lather? thanks
i finally got my first shaving brush today, completing my collection of things. applying warm lather with a brush completely exceeded my expectations, it was amazing. unfortunately wasn't the best shave, as i'm still getting used to my new muhle razor after having spent the last month getting used to a cheap wilkinson sword classic. anyway, thanks for all your vids, they've been a great kelp.
I need a mug. Last night I just tried to use a bowl, I used some cream from the Art of Shaving company about the amount he used in the mug and couldn't get half the lather mantic got. Was my first time using a brush. Just got my Merkur HD, cant wait to try that out. Thanks for all the post mantic.
I must be getting confused so hopefully someone can help me! Can you lather up by just using shaving soap or do you also need to use cream? If just using soap then how do you lather up using just that? Keep working the brush on the soap until a good lather is achieved?
I found a serious problem with the canned goo today. you bump the plastic thing on the bottom, and you have a nearly impossible to clean up mess. not to mention the stuff stings
@mantic59 I'm using a mini-badger hair brush (one that came in the Art of Shaving 'starter' pack) and Taylor of Old Bond St. cream (from a tub) and I never seem to get the thick, "whipped cream" kind of lather but instead an airier, "latte foamed milk" sort. Is there any reason for this? I've tried using more and less water but it just doesn't seem to get as dense as it should. Do I just need to mix it longer than usual because the brush is smaller?
@guitarbumx too airy/foamy a lather usually means either you didn't mix it enough or have too much water for the amount of soap/cream. Try starting with not enough water, mix it until it's obvious that it's not going to get any better, add a bit of water, mix again, add more water, etc. This will take some time but once you discover the right cream/water ratio you should be able to replicate it quickly.
Hey I was wondering if you could help me with this question. I have used the art of shaving cream for a very long time now, and I am pretty happy with it; it works really well when I use it properly. But I was thinking about switching to the Jack Black Shaving cream, and I was wondering which one you think would be better? Also Jack Black has a synthetic brush and if you know anything about it that you could share with me would be great because I've just been using art of shaving brush
@shanekeyvani i have not used jack black much, only a couple times a few years ago. didn't think much of it, better products out there. I didnt know they made a brush though.
Ok, from reading shaving forums ive been charging my brush for about 20 secs to get as much soap on as poss, then for the 2nd & maybe 3rd pass another quick swirl on the soap to get a little more soap. How can that little ammount of soap that mantic gets on his brush be enough for 2 or even 3 passes???. Thanks.
I have a Vulfix brush, the first badger brush I bought, and I've come to realize it's too floppy for my tastes. What's a good, reasonably priced badger brush to upgrade to that's got some backbone for creams and soaps in your opinion? I generally face lather but occasionally lather on the puck if it's a triple milled soap.
Thanks for posting these videos Mantic59. I am making the transition from canned goo, and throw-aways, to mug,brush,and old fashioned straights. You might be the Ben Stein of shaving ; )
Hi, I have been using a shaving brush and cream instead of from a can for a while now, any have no propblem miing it in the bowl, but whenever I try to put it on y face, it doesn't work that well, you seem to be able to mix it in the cup and then work it in on your face, if I do that insead of an even spread like yours, it just pushes it about about, I do have quite a cheap brush so could it be the fact that my brush isn't very soft, or am I doing something wrong?
@hardrockerdave94 you might just need to clean the brush a little more thoroughly. Check my video page to find my video on how to clean a shaving brush.
I recently made the jump to wet shaving(method), and wanted to say thanks. Your posts, and videos have been very helpful, and have been enjoying comfortable, close shaves with your help!
Thanks for the great video! I am a college student and I shave with an old double-edge my great grandpa owned and soap
I own a Kingsley pure badger brush and have lathered the soap by just swirling the brush directly over a cake of mug shaving soap in a mug. I never get the kind of lather you got here. What should I do? Also, the box the brush came in says to "never use strong pressure", but you move the brush around forcefully. Am I being too gentle? Will it ruin it if I am more forceful?
I'm, and barley have enough beard to warrant any more than an electric razor....but for some reason, I must do this....(probably with a straight razor rather than a safety razor just so I don't have to remember to buy blades)
@susanbunch1980 - I checked out ewisdontv but I don't think I'd get too many views there at $1.99/video when they can watch for free on Youtube, Metacafe, Sclipo, Blip, etc.
Good choice, I can't see a video website that charges per view lasting very long considering the large amount of free reference material and videos available online.
Good stuff. I'm sold. But I like the smell of Gillette Foamy, Colgate, and Barbasol. Can you suggest any shave soaps that smell like them? Thanks for your help.
@TeslaDRay best bet is to look online for a good one. i found a starting kit at walmart - came with a bowl, cheap brush, and soap ($7). i know its not top quality but its a start, at least to get use to the techniques. also gonna experiment weather i prefer the soap, traditional cream, foam, or gel. have to admit i really liked the feel of applying the lather with the brush. really helps to message the face and hairs. now do i get ballsy and get a straight razor?
me personally i wouldn't touch straight razors because it's hard to go against the grain with them. too bad we can't just wax our faces and be done with for a whole week, lol.
i think its just a matter of technique and developing the right touch. saw a video here where a guy shaves himself with a straight razor and goess against the grain. i looked at a website and damn those things are expensive! like $200 - $400!!!! plus having to get the strop and learning how to use all that. idk, might be more effort then its worth.
Hi Mantic. As a new year's resolution, I decided to explore traditional shaving. I'm a young, 20-something retrophile who loves anything old-fashioned and your videos have been an immense help in telling me how to shave the old-fashioned way. I now have a full shave-kit (razor, blades, brush, bowl, soap). This video was very helpful in showing me how to effectively use and mix the shaving-soap.
Welcome to the club. Im 17 and recently made the switch from my mach3 and foam to a badger, bowl and straight razor. It's great fun, an awesome ritual to kick off the day, and adds an element of badass few others can equal.
If you're into wet shaving, you wont be half asleep when you shave. Gillette's shaving cream is terrible. There is a reason why it goes for $4 when the good stuff goes for $14. Thats why its the good stuff. Its like comparing a BMW 530i to a Dodge Neon. Both are vehicles but one is actually a car.
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
I'm sorry I have to disappoint you but gillette's shaving cream has about 7 items on the contents list. Most soaps these days have 20+. The simplest soap has 4 (and that's without perfume - i.e. a soap for hand washing). Soaps today are pure chemistry so by making your own ladder you most likely aren't evading the "bad" substances. Besides most people shave half awake and want to be done with it as soon as possible. Also I don't think a safety razor is a good idea in the hands of a half sleeping
Good for you man. I dont know how I even shaved with all that crap until I started this way. The mach 3 with the old school shaving technique seems to work well. Enjoy
Im 35 and have been shaving since 16. I used cheap razors, electric and disposable. Since I started using a brush, shaving soaps and a real razor along with a nice alcohol free aftershave, I have never had such a good shave and good looking skin. Its a pleasure to shave everyday now.
@DavidSontz I know what you mean. I'm 27 and just learning how to shave now! I'm getting a Slim Gillette 1962 model from Ebay as we speak. Needs a lot of cleaning... but for $6.50 it's a working safety razor!
Hahahaha...I'm sorry, I have to laugh. But in a good way! A 'real' razor. I love how people call older things the 'real' thing. I've noticed it a lot recently. A fountain pen is a 'real' pen. A mechanical watch is a 'real' watch. Now a safety or a straight is a 'real' razor.
It's time we all went back to 'realism', I reckon.
Mantic, thank you for taking the time to create videos that focus on traditional shaving! I am turning 30 in a month, and I have been using can goop and the latest multi-bladed contraption since I started shaving. For Christmas 09 I got a brush and mug (w/ soup) and have used your videos to really learn the technique. I love the brush on my face! You have convinced me to order a safety razor now (or wait till my birthday next month). I really look forward to shaving now! Thank you so much!
what are some good shaving creams
daddycavefish 1 week ago
Hey mantic great vids. I have one question. May seem kinda dumb but i got the 4 elements of the perfect shave from the art of shaving. Is the pre shaving oil neccessary? If so how do you use it? Thanks.
pLaNbAKeR922 1 week ago
Love your vids. Cool, thanks...
pbrbnk 1 week ago
very good vid! thanks
kolenwal1 2 weeks ago
hey there, i use the art of shaving shave cream and love it...havee a small thing of sandalwood and full size tub of lemon i just got today. i use a bowl and their brush, but I don't ever get a thick white lather, just a small white "coating" over my face....how does this affect my shave? and how do I fix it? one thing i may not have been doing is adding water or having enough on the badger brush...
thanks!
mscommanderson34 3 weeks ago
@mscommanderson34 sounds like either not enough water or not enough mixing.
mantic59 3 weeks ago
@mantic59 water seemed to be it! always soak my brush but maybe i was flicking out too much water....thanks!
mscommanderson34 3 weeks ago
Thanks for the tips, your videos have helped me immensely. +100 Internets to you, good sir.
mattandbrook 1 month ago
How do I build lather with Proraso shave cream, the one that comes in the green bowl? I swish the brush in it a little but when I try to make a lather in a bowl it doesn't seem to get very thick. Please help. Thanks!
jpfeifer2 1 month ago
@jpfeifer2 you probably need to swirl the brush around for a longer time. It might also help to moisten the soap in the bowl with a little hot water to "loosen" it a little bit.
mantic59 1 month ago
Loving that sink!
Thanks for the video :)
Chronix74 1 month ago
Dood. I have found a shaving god. I am not worthy.
ChiefWahooMcDaniels 2 months ago
These 15,............10 10 commandments
Lol
dessellebrandon 2 months ago
Do you ever use pre shave oil?
H4rdstyl30wns 2 months ago
@H4rdstyl30wns no, I find pre-shave oil unnecessary as long as I prepare my face properly.
mantic59 2 months ago
@H4rdstyl30wns yes, it has really helped with my razor burn. since every face is different, you might not need it. personally, I find it really helpful.
jaroncscott 1 month ago
hello if my shaving cream comes from a tub is it necessary to scoop it into a bowl or can i just take the brush and dip it into the cream?
SoundwaveSuperior373 2 months ago
@SoundwaveSuperior373 you can just take the brush and swirl or dip into the cream if you wish.
mantic59 2 months ago
"particularly for the beginner it is easier to add water than to try to remove to much water"
So your saying that if I become an expert I will learn how to remove water from my soap. Wow I am nowhere near being an expert hehehe :P
Mundus33 2 months ago
I'm having a hard time building lather at all. I bought a boar hair brush and soap from Walgreens. It's just very thin, and while my cheeks and face feel better so far, everything under the chin still just feels hacked up. Whatever lather I add to the face just ends up dripping off. Is that too much water, or low quality products?
bopeuph 2 months ago
@bopeuph I have a special video just for the cheap video & soap you find at places like Wallgreens. Check my video channel page for the 3-part video titled "How To Use The 'Premium' Shave Kit." Basically, you need to start with a relatively dry brush and load it heavily with soap. Start applying to your face until you have something that kind of looks like school glue. Then dip the tips of the brush in water, continue lathering. It may take a few minutes but the lather will start to build.
mantic59 2 months ago
@mantic59 Thanks! That helped a lot. I still am not happy with the lather just yet, but I think I used too much water again. But, it was MUCH thicker than the last few days. So, I just need to remember less water and more soap. The face feels much better, and I imagine it will feel even better once I get my safety razor and stop using the Mach 3. It's time for new blades anyway, and getting a vintage one on eBay and buying the blades is actually cheaper than buying a new box of cartridges.
bopeuph 2 months ago
I build up a nice lather and apply it just as you show here. But what do I do in subsequent passes? Do I work the brush in bowl some more and re-lather? I always find that my lathers for the 2nd and 3rd passes don't go on as thick as the first pass. Is this normal? Thank you.
IRONxMortlock 3 months ago
@IRONxMortlock yes a slightly thinner lather is normal. Whether you want to re-work the brush in the bowl depends on how much is left in the brush. (I usually give it a couple swirls just to keep the lather warm)
mantic59 3 months ago
Hi, I am thinking about ordering this as my first set:
Merkur 38C Classic Safety Razor
Vulfix 660 Super Badger Shaving Brush, Medium Size
Classic Apothecary Shaving Mug by Fendrihan
Fendrihan Artisan Shaving Soap
10 Astra Platinum Double-Edge Safety Razor Blades
Any advice ?
nomisqc 4 months ago
@nomisqc very good products. My only suggestion would be to try more than one brand of blade.
mantic59 3 months ago
Can the shaving lather bowl be plastic? Does that make a diference in lather quality?
panchoskywalker 4 months ago
@panchoskywalker The lather quality should not be different with a plastic bowl.
mantic59 3 months ago
Another great upload! The lather is key, thanks for sharing!
PaceShave*com
PaceShave 4 months ago
How you doin? Excellent video, thanks!
kallekenkel 6 months ago
Are there any chain stores or online stores that you know of that sell good soaps, creams, brushes, razors, etc, that you would recommend?
RandomThoughtChanger 6 months ago
you have an awesome sink mantic :)
blueshift86 7 months ago 6
Mantic:
Wanted to let you know that I really enjoy your videos and have become a HUGE traditional shaving advocate! That being said, I have had issues with having a tough beard and sensitive skin. This seems to be a common trait with shavers who hate to shave. Anyway, I recently started using Proraso's Pre/Post shave cream to soften and prep my face, then apply my cream on top if it! IT TOTALLY ROCKS! You might suggest that to people who have a similar issue. Thanks again!
Tillerman7 7 months ago
I realize that the shaving creams, the ones compressed in metal cans, dry on my face and it ends up irritating or cutting my skin when I use it with safety razors. Could you tell me if the lather you made dries as fast as the "goo" or how long does it take until it dries?
o0PinkMartini0o 7 months ago
Great video. Thanks
OzzyCoop 7 months ago
Do u think proraso shaving soap is a good beginner soap to use? i have sensitive skin so i am getting the sensitive version of it....thanks mantic.
ghgh576 7 months ago
A very helpful video, a basic requirement is good lather and mine was poor, and I now know, too dry......many thanks.
colin186 8 months ago
What are your thoughts on using a straight razor a.k.a an open razor? One more question, how do you obtain the 5 o'clock shadow?
Thanks for your videos, I'm 13, my father walked out during Christmas when I was little so I need to learn these things on my own the proper way.
AznAlacran 8 months ago
This video is a big help, thanks. ^^
jplayer073 8 months ago
Awesome video, just started to use a safety razor and was having trouble mixing with shaving soap, cheers.
jkdarlow 8 months ago
I just ordered the 34c, a silvertip brush, Truefitt & Hill Luxury Shave Soap Bowl, Truefitt & Hill Ultimate Comfort Pre-shave Oil, Truefitt & Hill 1805 Aftershave Balm and 10x feather blades. Does that sound any good?
Vintervilan 9 months ago
@Vintervilan Very nice setup! But you may want to hold off on using the Feather blades until you become comfortable with your new gear. Try some other blade brands first.
mantic59 9 months ago
@mantic59 What do you suggest? Your videos are very helpful, thanks!
BrianSpohr 9 months ago
@Vintervilan Sounds like you have spent a little too much on your starter kit... Silvertip is a superfluous luxury for a beginner, but now that you have it: take good care of it and only use it on Sundays. For your everyday shaves, just get a nice omega boar, that's good enough. Sunday really is the day for shaving luxury, so hold on to your silvertip, just so you can fully appreciate the soft luxurious feel of it. The 34C is definitely ok, the soap sounds a bit expensive...
LReBe7 6 months ago
@Vintervilan I second what mantic59 states about holding off on the Feather blades. I use them, but they're not for beginners. I think it's best to transition to Feather blades after you can successfully shave without nicks or cuts with more standard blades. If you still want to use the Feather blades, use downstrokes only until you're getting a nick and/or cut less shave. Then add a diagonal downstroke. When you can do both of these, add a upward angle and finally the artful upstroke. PATIENCE!
HankLafayette 4 months ago
dang this guy is hardcore
09poolcleaner 9 months ago
@bsmyn0708 Sorry, it was a "semi-custom," limited-edition run for the "shavemyface(dot)com" forum a few years ago. The closest brush to it is probably Rooney's "Style 3, Medium, Super Silvertip"
mantic59 9 months ago
@bsmyn0708 its a Rooney Best
mantic59 9 months ago
hey mantic, im just about to buy and try my first safety razor. i have decided on these items that im getting from Amazon:
Proraso Shaving Soap
7AM Platinum DE blades
Tweezermans Badger Bristle brush
Merkur #180 Long Handled Safety Razor
sound like a good setup? btw, i have a cool soap mug that was used by my great-grandfather that im really looking forward to using. how should i go about transferring the soap over to the mug? should i scoop it out of the container and then heat it in the mug?
BigBonelessJerk 9 months ago
@BigBonelessJerk sorry for the late reply. Yes, that sounds like a good beginner's set up. I dont know if you can transfer the soft proraso soap to your mug though, you'll just have to try it and see what happens.
mantic59 9 months ago
Hello Mantic!
I have a couple of questions and i would be very happy if you could answer them
I'm new to wet-shaving, and I'm about to order the pretty basic shaving soap wich called Williams Mug Shaving Soap
since this is a bar soap, my questions is where to place it while making a lather with my brush? does it required a special mug that i should order with the soap? or i can just search a large glass in my home and make the lather inside it?
thank you very much!
vegeta816 10 months ago
@vegeta816 I would suggest not getting Williams just yet. Its not particularly bad but it can be very difficult to lather for the new shaver. Your Youtube profile says you are in Israel so I would suggest looking for Arko, Palmolive, or Derby locally. Otherwise if you are going to order online you have many more products to choose from.
mantic59 10 months ago
Ah ^_^ I find it a lot easier making a good lather by swirling the brush in the tub than I did just scooping out a bit. Thanks mantic. Your videos are a godsend to a teenager like me looking for a little bit of manliness, luxury and tradition in life.
one5643 10 months ago
do you know what type of stores sell alum blocks?
abdul456 10 months ago
@abdul456 sorry for late reply, alum blocks are usually only found in specialty stores or onlne.
mantic59 9 months ago
@abdul456 Look for crystal rock deodorants online. A simple solid crystal of potassium alum is the same whether its for shaving or marketted as for deodorant use. The deodorant ones also tend to be MUCH cheaper and larger.
Superslash 8 months ago
@Superslash Thanks I actually went to my local barber shop, and got an alum block for $4. But its kinda rough
abdul456 8 months ago
@abdul456 walmart sells alum pencils in the mens shaving area.
DorkofMordork 8 months ago
@abdul456 go to walmart and buy a styptic stick
MyLastrebel 7 months ago
@abdul456 Art of Shaving sells a nice big one for $20. It'll last you forever
bartlette84 6 months ago
@abdul456 Some of the Chemists keep Alum blocks.
realsoccerdude123 6 months ago
I get acne a lot when I shave because my face is super duper sensitive. Should I use a toner or more soap after this to keep clean?
UrbanArtifact 10 months ago
@UrbanArtifact you would probably want to use a toner, or even an astringent like Witch Hazel.
mantic59 10 months ago
Comment removed
catcat646 10 months ago
@mantic59 So many great video resources for shaving- thank you!
This is a riddle: I got a high quality badger brush and I can get a thick lather on the brush itself (I can squeeze it out as you show) but in spite of this, it is hard to build thicker lather on the face. I'm pushing too hard against my face (I don't think). Maybe I am used to the thickness of canned shaving cream and it's in my head?
PeterWrangel 11 months ago
I like building lather directly to the face. For me its easier, and less cleaning up to do.
chef123 11 months ago
Ever since I started having to shave regularly, it's been a horrible chore of shaving, waiting for the razor burn to heal, and shaving again. I've spent hundreds on different razors, electric and multiblade. When I tried to grow a neat beard, it looked, as my boss described it, more "homeless" than "neat." In the recent past, I came across one of your videos and decided to bite the bullet and buy a basic DE razor, brush, and it has changed everything. Thank you so much!
daschwpierdellevigne 11 months ago 15
I love the bit with the wall insulating guys.
sesshomaru30 11 months ago
Hi, I just wanted to thank you for all the helpful tutorials :) I still suck at getting the lather right, but the shave is still 500 times better than a 3 blade with barbasol!
jeggo182 1 year ago 2
hi mantic, i just shaved with a badger brush and shaving soap for the first time, but i couldn't get a thick lather. i whisked like crazy, added more water, added more soap, but i couldn't get the whipped-cream style... what could i be doing wrong?
LFCzeppelin8 1 year ago
@LFCzeppelin8 it is probably just a matter of "breaking in" your shave brush. See my video about cleaning a shave brush, it should help.
mantic59 1 year ago
when building lather on the face, do you wet your face a bit before?
acdcboy 1 year ago
@acdcboy i find it helpful but many people don't bother. It depends on how well you prepared your face.
mantic59 1 year ago
Hi Mantic, Is it really necessary to buy a stand for the shaving brush?
Thanks so much for these videos they have really helped me a lot. God Bless. :)
MrAjstyless 1 year ago
PRARASO GO GET SOME BEST 10 BUCKS YOU WILL SPEND ON SHAVE CREAM
kantelier 1 year ago
why do you have to shave in the first place ,, just be a man and grow a neat moustache and beard !!!
Taryam2 1 year ago
Is that a Texas A & M Mug I see!?
Gigem Aggies!
wsamsky 1 year ago
Today, after butchering and burning the hell out of my face due to making lather that was as watery as a corona, I finally went and looked up how to do it right. This video was a godsend. I am definitely a fan of the palm method now! Now if only my safety razor would come in the mail. . .
sgtsharpe 1 year ago
Whats the first cream you use from 2:10 onwards?
puppy1981 1 year ago
@puppy1981 Trumper's Violet
mantic59 1 year ago
Just tried the face lathering method. Worked great until I remade the lather for a 4th pass (3rd pass was against the grain). Burns like hell! But decent method for a 2-3 pass shave.
jonsirh 1 year ago
what exactly am i looking for in the lather to know when its hydrated enough and ready to apply...its just that i cant really tell the difference when you periodically stop stirring and show the lather on the brush....i like your videos, they're a big help and pretty funny
brussels73 1 year ago
Mantic, your videos are recomennded all over forums! Please explain to us all what are the advantages of the soap over the cream? Soap sure lasts way longer and turns out way cheaper and handy, I just wonder why I cannot create a thick lather for a hyper-sensitive skin with an expensive soap, but I can do it with the cheapest cream and a cheap pure badger brush.Soap or cream is best for the skin, I mean only true class soaps like Penhaligon, Tabac, and I see Taylor`s cream and soap look the same
FIxt00l 1 year ago
@FIxt00l soaps vs. creams is largely personal preference. Soaps generally tend to cut a little closer and creams tend to be slightly more cushioning but these are subtleties.
mantic59 1 year ago
Great video... and anyone with a Mel Brooks reference gets a thumbs up in my book!
JLSOSAII 1 year ago
Hi Manic. I do have a full beard and mustache, so the only areas that I shave is my neck and I keep running into the same problem. I do the 3 pass just on my neck but no matter what direction I go, I always have some kind of stubble around my Adams Apple which is very difined and around my chin line just below my ears. Can you help? Thanks.
StringZ71 1 year ago
@StringZ71 try swallowing and "holding" the swallow. you won't be able to really hold it long of course but it should be just long enough to flatten the area a bit and shave over your adams apple
mantic59 1 year ago
My lather always ends up runny and soapy.. Should I be squeezing more water out of the brush prior to mixing?
tehfear 1 year ago
@tehfear yes, or starting with more soap or cream.
mantic59 1 year ago
Great videos. But you are missing something I think you should include. HAve you ever used Shave Secret?
Nothing I have ever used compares to how good this works. Please try it. I would like to know your opinion on it. You can find it Wal-Mart. I was skeptical when I bought it. I only bought because I read the reviews on Amazon. Check it out.
hymefly 1 year ago
mantic, i have been de shaving for about two weeks now. I have a tweezerman badger brush and some col. conk bay rum soap. Can I expect that kind of lather when building directly on the face?
MiturBynesdurty 1 year ago
@MiturBynesdurty try it out!!
hallucinogen74 1 year ago
Do you have any experience with nivea for men shaving gel?
tehfear 1 year ago
Thanks very much for posting this Mantic, it was an extremely helpful video.
mm06gt 1 year ago
Mantic,
Thanks so much for the time and effort you have taken to demonstrate these time honored traditions. Your videos have been extraordinarily informative for me! I am making the move from expensive throw-away razors to a DE Gillete 1950's model I picked up at a local flea market.
My question: What is the brand of lather you are using?? I noticed it is a black tube. I only have a Wal-Mart and a CVS available near me. I am hoping I can pick something up there.
Thanks!
thammer67 1 year ago
@thammer67 the product in the black tube is Art of Shaving (lemon scent).
mantic59 1 year ago
You Have the Same Sink I do Haha!
19931512 1 year ago
This should be Chapter One in "The Art of Man"
asianfrenzy666 1 year ago
Thank you. Informative and amusing.
agentjoeblack 1 year ago
where do you get the brush and soap???
FootBall432221 1 year ago
@FootBall432221 check my blog for some sources.
mantic59 1 year ago
hey mantic when i use shaving soap, is it ok to build the lather in the same cup i have the cake in or better to have a separate bowl/cup to build the lather? thanks
ghardeh 1 year ago
@ghardeh it would be better to build it either directly on your face or in a separate bowl.
mantic59 1 year ago
Hi mantic - should creams in a tub eg coates, taylor of old bond street be mixed in a bowl/mug or applied directly to face for best results? thanks
BurnMyEyes0107 1 year ago
@BurnMyEyes0107 its a personal preference kind of thing, both ways work well.
mantic59 1 year ago
help*
rabbitspliff 1 year ago
i finally got my first shaving brush today, completing my collection of things. applying warm lather with a brush completely exceeded my expectations, it was amazing. unfortunately wasn't the best shave, as i'm still getting used to my new muhle razor after having spent the last month getting used to a cheap wilkinson sword classic. anyway, thanks for all your vids, they've been a great kelp.
rabbitspliff 1 year ago
I need a mug. Last night I just tried to use a bowl, I used some cream from the Art of Shaving company about the amount he used in the mug and couldn't get half the lather mantic got. Was my first time using a brush. Just got my Merkur HD, cant wait to try that out. Thanks for all the post mantic.
cnees208 1 year ago
My wife makes home made soap with differant oils...I just use that..works great
Greenmarine6 1 year ago
Could this guy possibly look and sound any more like the father from Heavy Rain???
SpikeRazorshards 1 year ago
where is that 15 commandments clip from?
ssnp 1 year ago
@ssnp Mel Brook's History of the World
cantode 1 year ago
@ssnp Mel Brooks' History of the World, Part 1
mantic59 1 year ago
@joegoult hot water is generally used in the brush (though I know people who use cold as well!)
mantic59 1 year ago
I must be getting confused so hopefully someone can help me! Can you lather up by just using shaving soap or do you also need to use cream? If just using soap then how do you lather up using just that? Keep working the brush on the soap until a good lather is achieved?
xnixiel 1 year ago
@xnixiel you can use either soap or cream (or use both for a "superlather!"). Check my channel page, I have a number of videos about how to lather.
mantic59 1 year ago
This guy reminds me of Jimmy Kimmel. Great posts mantic
cnees208 1 year ago
I found a serious problem with the canned goo today. you bump the plastic thing on the bottom, and you have a nearly impossible to clean up mess. not to mention the stuff stings
kingcobradude 1 year ago
@mantic59 is there any way of making a rich lather by using a bar of shave soap, a bowl and a badger brush?
Redbird573 1 year ago
@mantic59 I'm using a mini-badger hair brush (one that came in the Art of Shaving 'starter' pack) and Taylor of Old Bond St. cream (from a tub) and I never seem to get the thick, "whipped cream" kind of lather but instead an airier, "latte foamed milk" sort. Is there any reason for this? I've tried using more and less water but it just doesn't seem to get as dense as it should. Do I just need to mix it longer than usual because the brush is smaller?
guitarbumx 1 year ago
@guitarbumx too airy/foamy a lather usually means either you didn't mix it enough or have too much water for the amount of soap/cream. Try starting with not enough water, mix it until it's obvious that it's not going to get any better, add a bit of water, mix again, add more water, etc. This will take some time but once you discover the right cream/water ratio you should be able to replicate it quickly.
theonetruekeeper 1 year ago
@theonetruekeeper Thanks a lot, I was definitely underestimating how long I needed to mix considering that I'm using a small brush.
guitarbumx 1 year ago
@guitarbumx yes you probably need to mix longer.
mantic59 1 year ago
Comment removed
guitarbumx 1 year ago
Hey I was wondering if you could help me with this question. I have used the art of shaving cream for a very long time now, and I am pretty happy with it; it works really well when I use it properly. But I was thinking about switching to the Jack Black Shaving cream, and I was wondering which one you think would be better? Also Jack Black has a synthetic brush and if you know anything about it that you could share with me would be great because I've just been using art of shaving brush
shanekeyvani 1 year ago
@shanekeyvani i have not used jack black much, only a couple times a few years ago. didn't think much of it, better products out there. I didnt know they made a brush though.
mantic59 1 year ago
@mantic59 Thanks, is there any other shaving cream you would recommend other than the art of shaving?
shanekeyvani 1 year ago
@shanekeyvani theres a wide variety: crabtree & evelyn and treufitt & hill are probably the most common.
mantic59 1 year ago
Ok, from reading shaving forums ive been charging my brush for about 20 secs to get as much soap on as poss, then for the 2nd & maybe 3rd pass another quick swirl on the soap to get a little more soap. How can that little ammount of soap that mantic gets on his brush be enough for 2 or even 3 passes???. Thanks.
Trotters80 1 year ago
@Trotters80 it partly depends on the type of brush and the type of soap you are using.
mantic59 1 year ago
thank you for the help! all i need is the brush nd im set!
nyzdonalejandro 1 year ago
I have a Vulfix brush, the first badger brush I bought, and I've come to realize it's too floppy for my tastes. What's a good, reasonably priced badger brush to upgrade to that's got some backbone for creams and soaps in your opinion? I generally face lather but occasionally lather on the puck if it's a triple milled soap.
joscobo 1 year ago
@joscobo consider a "greys" brush from shaveplace(dot)com or an edwin jagger brush.
mantic59 1 year ago
Well that answers that... I don't mix it long enough.
tbagz77 1 year ago
at 5:08 that looks like a really nice lather..
deadlyballer 1 year ago 2
Hey Mantic, could you build lather in a mug from cream in a tub, or do you have to build the lather on your face?
oublik 1 year ago
@oublik sure, you could build lather in a mug from a tub.
mantic59 1 year ago
Thanks for posting these videos Mantic59. I am making the transition from canned goo, and throw-aways, to mug,brush,and old fashioned straights. You might be the Ben Stein of shaving ; )
SD9Driver 1 year ago
mantic i always wanted to know, why do you have gillette gel in ur shave den
daboss212 1 year ago
@daboss212 mrs. mantic59 used it on her legs for a while.
mantic59 1 year ago
Great video. Thanks!
eshudnow 1 year ago
Great video. Thanks!
eshudnow 1 year ago
Great videos, any chance you can make one showing how to use a shave stick?
toadlicker7 1 year ago
@toadlicker7 check my video page for my "wetshaving travel ideas + shave sticks" video
mantic59 1 year ago
Hi, I have been using a shaving brush and cream instead of from a can for a while now, any have no propblem miing it in the bowl, but whenever I try to put it on y face, it doesn't work that well, you seem to be able to mix it in the cup and then work it in on your face, if I do that insead of an even spread like yours, it just pushes it about about, I do have quite a cheap brush so could it be the fact that my brush isn't very soft, or am I doing something wrong?
hardrockerdave94 1 year ago
@hardrockerdave94 you might just need to clean the brush a little more thoroughly. Check my video page to find my video on how to clean a shaving brush.
mantic59 1 year ago
where can i get lather
kema702 1 year ago
I've never made lather i just use it from the can, but i might try this, is it worth the extra time? because i dont have alot of time in the morning.
zombiekiller180 1 year ago
Thanks so much for making and posting this video! Great viewing angles for a novice like me! I'm much obliged!
shaffy2783 1 year ago
:D you're soo funny ;)
asianstyle4ever 1 year ago
Hi Mantic,
I recently made the jump to wet shaving(method), and wanted to say thanks. Your posts, and videos have been very helpful, and have been enjoying comfortable, close shaves with your help!
Best Regards,
jvlb06
jvlb06 1 year ago
Thanks for the great video! I am a college student and I shave with an old double-edge my great grandpa owned and soap
I own a Kingsley pure badger brush and have lathered the soap by just swirling the brush directly over a cake of mug shaving soap in a mug. I never get the kind of lather you got here. What should I do? Also, the box the brush came in says to "never use strong pressure", but you move the brush around forcefully. Am I being too gentle? Will it ruin it if I am more forceful?
fhsreelfilms 1 year ago
I'm, and barley have enough beard to warrant any more than an electric razor....but for some reason, I must do this....(probably with a straight razor rather than a safety razor just so I don't have to remember to buy blades)
gamemeister27 1 year ago
Excellent video! Expert advice! You should upload your video to Ewisdomtv
susanbunch1980 1 year ago
@susanbunch1980 - I checked out ewisdontv but I don't think I'd get too many views there at $1.99/video when they can watch for free on Youtube, Metacafe, Sclipo, Blip, etc.
mantic59 1 year ago
@mantic59
Good choice, I can't see a video website that charges per view lasting very long considering the large amount of free reference material and videos available online.
odeonusIX 1 year ago
Good stuff. I'm sold. But I like the smell of Gillette Foamy, Colgate, and Barbasol. Can you suggest any shave soaps that smell like them? Thanks for your help.
JeanScallopsidi 1 year ago
@JeanScallopsidi For creams, try Taylor of Old Bond Street "Shaving Shop." For a soap, I like the Valobra soap stick.
lurkersteve 1 year ago
Lol!
10! 10 Commandments!
WutSafety 1 year ago 13
After shaving like this for a month, I will NEVER go back. This is so incredible. I love it, even though I have an unnaturally thick beard.
SexyTownBrown 1 year ago 3
found the shave soap at a supermarket, where can i find a badger brush? we don't have them here.
TeslaDRay 1 year ago
@TeslaDRay best bet is to look online for a good one. i found a starting kit at walmart - came with a bowl, cheap brush, and soap ($7). i know its not top quality but its a start, at least to get use to the techniques. also gonna experiment weather i prefer the soap, traditional cream, foam, or gel. have to admit i really liked the feel of applying the lather with the brush. really helps to message the face and hairs. now do i get ballsy and get a straight razor?
Doug19752533 1 year ago
@Doug19752533
me personally i wouldn't touch straight razors because it's hard to go against the grain with them. too bad we can't just wax our faces and be done with for a whole week, lol.
TeslaDRay 1 year ago
i think its just a matter of technique and developing the right touch. saw a video here where a guy shaves himself with a straight razor and goess against the grain. i looked at a website and damn those things are expensive! like $200 - $400!!!! plus having to get the strop and learning how to use all that. idk, might be more effort then its worth.
Doug19752533 1 year ago
You may need to go online
JosephandElissa 1 year ago
Hi Mantic. As a new year's resolution, I decided to explore traditional shaving. I'm a young, 20-something retrophile who loves anything old-fashioned and your videos have been an immense help in telling me how to shave the old-fashioned way. I now have a full shave-kit (razor, blades, brush, bowl, soap). This video was very helpful in showing me how to effectively use and mix the shaving-soap.
Shangas 2 years ago 8
Welcome to the club. Im 17 and recently made the switch from my mach3 and foam to a badger, bowl and straight razor. It's great fun, an awesome ritual to kick off the day, and adds an element of badass few others can equal.
FUZZYisBIG 2 years ago 2
@Shangas If you like old school search for "Latin Mass" or "Tridentine Mass" on youtube.
croissantanyone 1 year ago
Good job ,at 5:23 , you look's like De Niro!!!
santiage 2 years ago
If you're into wet shaving, you wont be half asleep when you shave. Gillette's shaving cream is terrible. There is a reason why it goes for $4 when the good stuff goes for $14. Thats why its the good stuff. Its like comparing a BMW 530i to a Dodge Neon. Both are vehicles but one is actually a car.
DavidSontz 2 years ago 2
This comment has received too many negative votes show
I'm sorry I have to disappoint you but gillette's shaving cream has about 7 items on the contents list. Most soaps these days have 20+. The simplest soap has 4 (and that's without perfume - i.e. a soap for hand washing). Soaps today are pure chemistry so by making your own ladder you most likely aren't evading the "bad" substances. Besides most people shave half awake and want to be done with it as soon as possible. Also I don't think a safety razor is a good idea in the hands of a half sleeping
kotapaka 2 years ago
Good for you man. I dont know how I even shaved with all that crap until I started this way. The mach 3 with the old school shaving technique seems to work well. Enjoy
DavidSontz 2 years ago
Im 35 and have been shaving since 16. I used cheap razors, electric and disposable. Since I started using a brush, shaving soaps and a real razor along with a nice alcohol free aftershave, I have never had such a good shave and good looking skin. Its a pleasure to shave everyday now.
DavidSontz 2 years ago 2
@DavidSontz I know what you mean. I'm 27 and just learning how to shave now! I'm getting a Slim Gillette 1962 model from Ebay as we speak. Needs a lot of cleaning... but for $6.50 it's a working safety razor!
Sviolinist 2 years ago
Hahahaha...I'm sorry, I have to laugh. But in a good way! A 'real' razor. I love how people call older things the 'real' thing. I've noticed it a lot recently. A fountain pen is a 'real' pen. A mechanical watch is a 'real' watch. Now a safety or a straight is a 'real' razor.
It's time we all went back to 'realism', I reckon.
Shangas 2 years ago
Thanks for the tips! I used a brush for the first time today and realized that I did it wrong :P
DjelQc 2 years ago
Mantic, thank you for taking the time to create videos that focus on traditional shaving! I am turning 30 in a month, and I have been using can goop and the latest multi-bladed contraption since I started shaving. For Christmas 09 I got a brush and mug (w/ soup) and have used your videos to really learn the technique. I love the brush on my face! You have convinced me to order a safety razor now (or wait till my birthday next month). I really look forward to shaving now! Thank you so much!
JosephandElissa 2 years ago