Abstract: A non-woven fabric web is converted to a tubular shape by forming the web between a cylindrical mandrel and surrounding sleeve, and passing reciprocating barbed needles through the region where the sides of the web abut each other, to form a butt joint thereat. The apparatus includes a pair of rollers for drawing the tubular shaped web between the mandrel and sleeve, as well as a motor and control circuit for operating the reciprocating needles.