An apparatus an a method for forming a continuous web of material from a block (1) of material is disclosed. The block (1) is preferably a cylindrical block having a base (16) and a generally vertical central axis (2) extending generally orthogonally from the base (6). The apparatus comprises a rotatable platen (20) such that the block (1) may be rotatably supported, and means (40) for displacing portions of the block (1) defining a displaced portion (42) near the base (6) of the block. A blade (30) is positioned generally parallel to the central axis (2) of the block, the blade (30) positioned to cut into the block (1) a predetermined distance rfrom the central axis (2). The blade (30) has a portion operatively disposed within the displaced portion of the block (1). The apparatus also comprises rotational means for rotating the platen (20); as well as advancement means for linearly decreasing said predetermined distance of said blade (30) from said central axis (2).