FIELD: welding, possibly making sheet blanks. SUBSTANCE: method comprises steps of positioning sheets subjected to laser welding in such a way that their end surfaces were adjoined one to another; plastically deforming at least one sheet along butt line in order to reduce butt gap until size necessary for laser welding due to material yielding to side of gap narrowing. It allows to weld sheets cut with significantly lower accuracy. Apparatus includes roller for crushing edges and holding device. EFFECT: enhanced quality of sheet joint welded by simplified technology as it is not necessary to provide precise positioning and high accuracy cutting of sheets, reduced cost of the whole process. 18 cl, 12 dwg
