Abstract: A method and apparatus for positioning and holding a pair of sheet metal blanks to be butt welded into a compound blank for stamping a larger panel with varying thicknesses. A fixture plate is provided with locating corners matching predetermined reference corners of the blank and with mechanisms for pushing the blanks into the locating corners. The first blank is pushed into abutment with stops that are then pivoted out of the way, after the first blank is clamped in place. The second blank is then abutted with the already clamped first blank, and clamped. The loaded fixture is then transported to a weld station, where the pre positioned blanks can be quickly and efficiently laser welded.