a c - shaped innerframe is preformed and then applied to a preformed cigarette bundle as part of a cigarette packing operation . the preformed innerframe first contacts the bundle with the back of the c in contact with the front surface of the bundle , and with the arms of the c adjacent the sides of the bundle and projecting rearwarly behind the rear surface of the bundle . thereafter , the arms of the c are brought in against the side and rear surfaces of the bundle to complete application of the innerframe to the bundle .