i do the same. i cut in to the hair line and reshape it because the stocks i get (not from toplace) are between a CC and an A. this i find to straight..
i use the nair technique to add back the graduation. i also bleach the area to get rid of knots.
i have no experience with toplace but unless you are thinning out the entire piece dramatically (NOT ADVISED) the knots throughout the piece shouldnt be an issue. if anything, perhaps in a defined crown or hard part, not elsewhere