A method for baling a cellulose acetate tow is disclosed. The method includes the following steps: laying the cellulose acetate tow into a can; pressing the laid tow with a press having a first platen and a second platen, each platen facing each other, each platen having a contoured face, the contoured face having at least three sloped portions, a first sloped portion located adjacent a peripheral edge of the platen having a first slope, a second sloped portion located adjacent the first sloped portion having a second slope, and a third sloped portion located adjacent the second sloped portion having a third slope, wherein the first slope is greater that the second slope, and the second slope is greater that the third slope; and packaging and securing the pressed tow; whereby the pressed tow having substantially flat surfaces.