An improved apparatus and method for effecting an operation on at least one continuously moving substrate web is disclosed. In particular, the apparatus includes a patterned anvil roll which includes a plurality of projections arranged in a predetermined pattern for effecting an operation on the web such as, for example, bonding, cutting, embossing, perforating and the like. The anvil roll includes recesses between the projections and resilient release material located in the recesses to improve the release of the substrate web from the anvil roll.