I got mine out and gave it another try. I used the Quilter's Slidelock to hold down the ruler next to the slot and it worked perfectly. I had a pile of strips cut in no time. Try using a big hardback book to hold the ruler or even a cold iron, anything with weight. I would suggest everyone invest in a Quilter's Slidelock. It is so worth it. The main reason I use it is for safety but have found other great uses for it too.