Normally you can't purchase round blocks. When you pick or saw 50 lb. blocks into smaller chunks, it's a little difficult to keep the machine in balance. It is very important for you to learn to freeze round block ice. It is important to have literally hundreds of blocks made up in advance. It's your choice.
Some people sharpen their shaver blades daily.
The colder your ice, the more frequently you need to bring back the razor edge with a diamond sharpener. All stainless steel. Shave Ice Flavor Bottles are an absolute necessity. Clear plastic long neck bottles show off the brightly colored syrups. Use the plastic pour out spout to control the amount of syrup on each Shave Ice serving.