An apparatus and method for engaging both profiles (18, 20) of an interlocked zipper (12) as the zipper or fastener strip is guided onto a supply of thermoplastic film (16) used to make a reclosable bag. A first interlocked profile (18) of the zipper is engaged by at least one roller (24, 26, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44) of the roller-type applicator (10). A disc (28) mechanically attached to an end section of at least one of the rollers engages a web (22) of the second interlocked profile (20) that extends beyond the width of a web of the first profile (18). By their attachment, the disc (28) and the roller move the profiles (18, 20) at the same speed so that the profiles remain aligned as they are moved through the zipper guide (14). The zipper (12) is then attached to a surface of the thermoplastic film (16) used to make the reclosable bag.