Cranberry Walnut sourdough, Still can't get that elusive ear

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Do you proof the bread in something that lets the exterior slightly dry out (such as a banneton or linen cloth)? 

I proof it in a bannetton lined with a linen cloth , covered with the cloth , then a piece of plastic on top of the cloth  secured with an elastic.  the bottom of the bannetton isn't covered.  Then I cold retard it for 12-24 hours, remove from fridge , score and bake immediately.  I even decreased the hydration to try to get an ear.  I'm onto my second style of lame.  First one was curved with long handle.  Now I have the UFO that I find hard to use too because the round wooden part actually gets in my way( probably because I'm using it wrong).