I started out using the Go cutter with the rag die. I could cut two layers without much problem but I also had the same thing happen with the blades coming up and had to be pushed down. I took the die to the store I had bought it from and she sent it to the manufacturer. The new die worked just fine. You just have to have patience until the die is broke in a little. I now own a studio cutter and haven't had as much trouble. The newspaper trick is a good one. Good Luck!