Blade depth is set properly. it barely scratches the backing, without cutting it, on the ends of the machine leading to a great cut. When set that way, the middle part of the machine is just scoring the vinyl without cutting through it leading to tearing when trying to weed. If i adjust it so it cuts properly at the center of the machine, the blade cuts into the backing paper at the ends. Its like the machine is warped or bowed, not that i have ever put weight on it, in the middle.