An elastic composite is formed by securing an elastic member to a
substrate along a securement path extending longitudinally of the
substrate. The position of the elastic member on the substrate varies
laterally along the longitudinally extending securement path in a
generally periodic wave pattern having at least one period within the
securement path. The periodic wave pattern is such that the elastic
composite is more stretchable in the direction of the securement path
than transverse to the securement path. In another embodiment, the
securement path varies laterally as it extends longitudinally along the
securement path. The position of the elastic member varies transversely
within the securement path to at least partially define a width of the
securement path.