Hi, Helen. Slashing the bread is the last thing you do before sliding it into the oven. And yes, the bread may fall at first, but if you've timed it right, it will rise up, and vigorously, when it gets into the oven. If that hasn't been happening for you, it's likely you've waited too long on the second rise and the dough is over-risen. Any sharp blade will do the job; you need to cut about 1/2" deep, quickly, then put the dough immediately into the oven. Susan

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