Abstract: Starter sheet and method for a pop-up type dispensing package for individual product sheets, arranged in an interleaved stack or in a perforated web. The package is of the type having a restrictive dispensing orifice so sized that the topmost product sheet cannot be conveniently grasped by the consumer through the dispensing orifice. The starter sheet is less porous than the product sheets. The starter sheet is interleaved with and overlies the topmost product sheet of a stack thereof or is interleaved with or attached to the first product sheet of a perforated web thereof. During the packaging process a vacuum is applied to the dispensing orifice or directly to the starter sheet through the dispensing orifice to draw a sufficient portion of the starter sheet through the dispensing orifice to enable withdrawal of the starter sheet, bringing the topmost product sheet into its pop-up position ready for withdrawal.