PURPOSE: To omit unnecessary operation of a sliver holding tool by housing the cut end of a new sliver held with the sliver holding tool for holding the sliver end of a new can in an empty can.

CONSTITUTION: The holding of a sliver holding tool (L) is released above an empty can in the course of moving a sliver holding tool (L) holding the cut end of a new sliver (S1) held in sliver piecing operation just before the present operation together with a sliver holding tool (K) in the left direction so as to hold the tip 9 of the new sliver housed in a new can and the cut end of the new sliver is housed in the empty can.