Abstract: A method of forming an apertured support member is accomplished by directing a laser beam at a workpiece, focusing the laser beam at the top surface of the workpiece, moving the laser beam in a series of raster scans over the surface of the workpiece. During each scan, the laser is turned on at predetermined intervals to drill one or more discrete portions of each of the apertures to form apertures surrounded by a plateau on the resulting support member.

Abstract: An elasticized absorbent article, illustrated as an elastic waistband disposable diaper, includes an absorbent panel, a backsheet underlying the absorbent panel, and a liquid-permeable topsheet which overlies the absorbent panel. Each of the backsheet and topsheet includes at least one longitudinal end marginal portion which extends beyond an end edge of the absorbent panel. A waist elastic element is provided which is positioned between the end marginal portions of the topsheet and backsheet for forming an elastic waistband region. Notably, the elastic waistband element is provided with a substantially overall adhesive coating, preferably in either slot-coated or spray-coated filament form, for securement to the associated topsheet. The topsheet is thereby elastically gathered to provide a textured and cushioned surface at the inside region of the waistband for enhanced comfort.