Abstract: Apparatus and methods of heat-treating laminar materials, in particular fabrics including materials such as synthetic leather (laminated polyurethane) are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a pair of cooperating rollers defining a nip through which the material is passed. Heating means is arranged to heat the material as it is compressed at the roller nip. A feeding arrangement is provided for feeding the material to said nip, the feeding arrangement including a pair of cooperating formers between which the material is passed. Each of the formers comprises a series of ribs spaced apart from one another, the average gap between adjacent ribs being less at the leading edge of the former than at the trailing edge thereof. The ribs of one former are positioned so that they are able to lie within the gaps between the ribs of the other former. Advantageously, the apparatus also includes means for effecting lateral movement of at least one of the formers.