Clean and dry the razor
Inspect the edge for chips or damage
Soak the honing stone if required
Place the stone on a stable, non-slip surface
Hold the razor at a consistent spine-to-edge angle
Lay the blade flat on the stone with the spine and edge contacting properly
Use light, controlled strokes
Move the razor edge-leading across the stone
Flip the razor on the spine only
Repeat on the other side
Maintain even pressure throughout
Progress through finer grits
Keep the stone surface clean and lubricated as needed
Test the edge carefully after honing
Strop the razor on leather
Use smooth, even passes on the strop
Repeat stropping until the edge is refined
Store the razor dry and protected