A method and apparatus for manufacturing recloseable plastic bags with engageable mating profiles where the bags are provided open for the consumer. The profiles are initially provided in the fully engaged condition within an elongate, longitudinally cut tube. The profiles are then periodically fused, tacked, or attached together at the approximate locations where the tube is to be cut into bags. Upon tacking, the profiles are pulled apart by frictionally engaging an area on the outside of the film, near the profiles, and between the tacks. The film is then forced away from the profiles, which at least partially pulls one profile from the other. Thereafter, the tube may be cut and sealed into bags as would otherwise normally occur.