Abstract: A web (102) of backing material to which a web (104) of composite material is adhered is tensioned between two reels (12). A mold (100) is brought into position relative to the webs (102, 104) and located in an oriented closely spaced position relative to a ply (106) cut from the web (104). Localized downward forces are applied to the backing material (102) opposite the ply (106) by extending vacuum cups (40) or ejecting streams of air from nozzles (72). The downward forces move the ply (106) toward the mold (100) and into contact with portions of the mold (100). The ply (106) adheres to the portions of the mold (100) which it contacts. The vacuum cups (40) are moved along the web (102) and then retracted. The suction of the vacuum cups (40) and the tensioning of the web (102) cause separation of the web (102) from the adhered ply (106). When streams of air provide the downward force, the tensioning of the web (102) causes the separation.