In a process for making prefastened and refastenable garments, a discrete
article is transported in a primary direction of movement. The discrete
article can define a leading half comprising first fastening components,
a trailing half comprising second fastening components releasably
engageable with the first fastening components, and an interconnecting
region disposed between and interconnecting the leading and trailing
halves. The leading half can be temporarily diverted from the primary
direction of movement, while continuing to transport the interconnecting
region and the trailing half in the primary direction. After
reestablishing movement of the leading half in the primary direction, the
leading half can contact a contoured surface, such as a contoured plate
or roll. The contact can cause the first fastening components to be
transversely displaced toward one another, whereupon the first and second
fastening components can be engaged.