Abstract: An apparatus for folding and sealing the edges of a non-rigid work piece and a method of performing folding and sealing operations therewith. The apparatus comprises a press with a main cylinder, at least one auxiliary cylinder and upper and lower die assemblies for the press. The upper die assembly comprises a folding cavity plate operatively connected to the main cylinder and having a folding cavity with an electrode surrounding a part at least of the cavity. A stripper in association with the upper die assembly is independently shiftable by the at least one auxiliary cylinder between a retracted position above the folding cavity and an extended position therebelow. The bottom die assembly comprises a plate having a female cavity therein of a size and shape equivalent to that of the folded work piece and a male plug receivable within the female cavity with close tolerance.