We Love this item. We don’t cut our rolls while they are in the block. We remove the roll then cut it with a crazy sharp knife with a damp blade. Also, wrap the top and bottom plates with plastic wrap and soak the square frame in water. If you do that, removal and cleanup is easier!! Additionally, after we line the base and side walls with rice we put a partial sheet of soy paper pressed against the rice lining with about an inch protruding prior to filling with your favorite items. Once you’ve added your roll filling, cover them with the remaining inch of soy paper, top with rice and press!! Epic, yummy goodness!! Awesome press!!