Scott-
    Our lab has no 'official' method regards facing of blocks. Most of our
staff do it as they cut, one block at a time. I was trained to do it in
batch fashion. The advantages for me are several:
1) knives last longer as facing can be done with blade not suitable for
final cuts.
2) allows more efficient handling of blocks requiring special treatment -
surface decal, hydration, etc.

    This is one area where there is no right or wrong; personal preference
rules.
--
Charles Eisener
Laboratory Alliance of Central New York
Syracuse, NY
creisener@odyssey.net