A method and apparatus for folding and engaging side panels of a training pant are provided. The training pant comprises a leading portion, a trailing portion, a central portion, and a first pair of side panels and a second pair of side panels attached to the central portion. The central portion of the training pant is folded about a transverse axis to form a folded training pant. Portions of the first pair of side panels and second pair of side panels are engaged while the central portion of the folded training pant is received by at least one recessed seat. The at least one recessed seat is located on at least one of a first belt and a second belt of a conveyance system.