PURPOSE: To provide a method and apparatus for quickly inserting a group of sheets obtained from a plurality of webs into envelopes in a selective and predetermined overlapping order.

CONSTITUTION: Preformed envelopes are supplied from a web roll 28, which is a supply source for the folding and insertion. A plurality of sheets is supplied for the folding and insertion into the envelopes 26. A leading sheet from each web 30 is selectively carried, and then is cut at a collection point for folding and insertion. The selection of the sheet to be supplied and cut is accomplished by means of a CPU 54 having a system for detecting a bar code 58 disposed along the respective web 30. In order to make the insertion of contents easy, a system for expanding the opening of the envelope may be provided. This system comprises a strip material disposed along each of a series of envelopes. The strip material has a folded portion in the respective openings. A tab may be disposed along a side surface of the opening of the respective envelopes.