Abstract: A process and apparatus for forming a laminated plastic article, especially a container. In one formation sequence, a flattened preform of desired perimeter configuration is formed, which preferably is multilayered, directly from thermoplastic materials. In another formation sequence, a preform is positioned in a thermoforming apparatus wherein, with edge portions of the preform is clamped and the midportions are mandrel-formed into a body having continuous integral side and bottom wall portions. This body is then trimmed and blow-molded to produce a desired product article. Residual portions of the starting preform can be trimmed away from the lip portions of the product article if desired.