Elasticized garment and method of making the same

Abstract

Garments having a medial section which includes a gathered crotch portion and transversely opposed side sections are made by stretching an elastic layer transversely of the garment and stretch-bonding it to a gatherable non-elastic layer. Upon release of the elongating forces, the medial portion of the resulting composite contracts to form gathers and provides an elasticized portion which enhances fit and comfort of the garment. The elastic material may be liquid-impervious and the non-elastic material may be breathable whereby the medial portion of the garment, which may comprise a disposable diaper or panty, is rendered leak-proof or at least leak-resistant and the side portions are breathable for enhanced comfort. A method for making the garment comprises stretching the elastic material transversely to elongate it and maintaining it in its transversely elongated condition while bonding it by any suitable means to the gatherable non-elastic material.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.