Stijn De Sutter Featured in Excalibur Magazine: The Belgian Master Barber Bringing Classic Shaving Back to Life
Recently, Stijn De Sutter was interviewed by Revue Excalibur, the leading French magazine dedicated to knives, craftsmanship, and traditional shaving. Within this niche, Excalibur is highly respected: professional, reliable, and widely read by enthusiasts and experts alike. For De Sutter to be featured there is a recognition of everything he has been building with ROMAIN and through his international collaborations.
A Master Barber in Ghent
De Sutter’s story began in the heart of Ghent, Belgium. What started with one small barbershop has grown into three locations, including the oldest barbershop in Belgium, continuously in use since 1884.
His mission? To revive classic shaving with the straight razor. In a world where speed often comes first, De Sutter reintroduces men to the unique ritual of shaving: careful preparation, precise execution, and a soothing, refreshing finish.
Training at the Accademia Scapicchio
This passion led him to the Accademia Scapicchio in Bovino, Italy — the oldest barbering academy in the world, founded in 1820. After years of intense training, he earned the official title of Maestro Barbiere — a distinction held by only sixteen barbers worldwide.
This education remains the foundation of what he teaches and offers today: a centuries-old tradition, translated into a modern barbershop experience.
From Historic Razors to Modern Innovation
Beyond his daily work behind the chair, De Sutter collects historic straight razors and collaborates with leading brands such as Dovo Solingen and Ardennes Coticule. His collection includes rare Japanese kamisori, Italian Fontani razors, and exclusive models developed in close collaboration with master craftsmen.
This dedication also led to the creation of the All-in-One Honing Kit, an innovative sharpening set that allows barbers worldwide to keep their blades in peak condition.
Three ROMAIN Barbershops in Ghent
ROMAIN Headquarters – Verbroederingstraat 19, Ghent
ROMAIN Yvonne – Kliniekstraat, Ghent
ROMAIN Coupure 1884 – located in Belgium’s oldest continuously operating barbershop
Each location combines authentic interiors (19th-century furniture, J.J. Maes barber chairs from the 1950s) with a contemporary approach to service and atmosphere. A shave at ROMAIN isn’t routine — it’s a ritual.
Education and Knowledge Sharing
More than 80 European barbers have already trained with De Sutter, diving deep into the traditional Italian techniques of shaving and honing. These workshops are small-scale, intensive, and designed for both professionals and passionate enthusiasts.
The training protocols he uses are directly based on Scapicchio’s Italian heritage and are also part of his upcoming book: Protocols, an Operating Barber Manual.
Recognition by Revue Excalibur
The fact that Excalibur Magazine chose to highlight De Sutter’s work proves that classic barbering is more than nostalgia. It is both cultural heritage and a modern luxury experience that resonates with today’s clientele.
This feature reinforces his role as a bridge between tradition and innovation, between Italy, Belgium, and the international shaving community.
👉 Curious to experience it for yourself?
Book your appointment at one of the ROMAIN barbershops in Ghent and discover the true art of the straight razor shave.
