a method of packaging an article involves drawing two elongated strips of plastic from a supply , placing an article between them , then drawing two broader sheets above and below the first two sheets . the various sheets are adjusted and sealed in such a manner that two envelopes are formed , one inside the other , the outer envelope being larger in all directions than the inner envelope . the outer envelope is then inflated under conditions such that air is expelled form the inner envelope , collapsing it tightly about the article . by omitting certain steps , an empty container can be formed , suitable for later loading and inflation . the apparatus disclosed automatically carries out the method .