Abstract: Apparatus for forming a closed loop object such as a pipe reinforcing cage from wire fabric includes an infeed carriage assembly receiving sections of wire fabric and transporting the fabric to a pair of gripping assemblies. Each gripping assembly includes rotatable gripping jaws mounted on a slide in turn positioned on a carriage for motion toward and away from each other such that opposite ends of the fabric can be brought together while rotating the gripping jaws to form a cylindrical cage. Speed control means are provided for assuring the gripping jaws advance toward each other in synchronism with the rotation of the jaws thereby forming a perfect cylindrical cage. Welding means are provided for welding the ends of the cage so formed while held in position by the gripping jaws.