Method for deforming a web

A process for fabricating an absorbent article, the absorbent article comprising a liquid permeable topsheet and a liquid impermeable backsheet, the method comprising the steps of:

• a) supplying a first layer of a precursor topsheet;
• b) weakening the first layer at a plurality of locations to create a plurality of weakened, melt-stabilized locations in a first area of the first layer;
• c) supplying a second layer of the precursor topsheet onto at least the first area of the first layer;
• d) forming a plurality of first features and a plurality of second features in the precursor topsheet;
• e) supplying a precursor backsheet onto the second layer of the precursor topsheet and integrating the precursor topsheet and the precursor backsheet to form an absorbent article assembly;
• and
• f) severing the absorbent article assembly into individual absorbent articles,
• wherein the first area of the first layer confines a first area of the precursor topsheet,
• wherein the plurality of first features are apertures formed in the first area of the precursor topsheet coincident with the plurality of weakened, melt-stabilized locations throughout the first layer but not the second layer,
• wherein the plurality of second features are formed throughout the first and second layers in a second area of the precursor topsheet in the z-direction, and
• wherein the plurality of first features and the plurality of second features are formed simultaneously.