I'm one of those that is a follower of Ko Gen Do. I peel off the top and bottom layer then just cut the size strip off so the threads run lengthwise. It took me a bit to get the right width but when I did my coils wick wonderfully. When I wick I use enough cotton so the rolled cotton moves back and forth tightly, not freely. I still have about half a bag left that I bought 3+ years ago. (I only vape unflavored, however, so I change out my wicking every two or three weeks.) Good luck on your vaping journey.
Jerry