There is provided a method of activating a substantially inelastic laminate to an elastic state by providing an elastic layer bonded on at least one face to a fibrous facing layer. The laminate is directed under laser beams so as to cut fibers of the at least one fibrous facing layer along perforation lanes in at least one region forming a laminate that is extensible and elastic in a direction generally transverse to the direction of the perforation lanes. This laminate is particularly adapted for use in personal care articles.