Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying coatings, such as in particular varnishes, to surfaces is provided. The apparatus includes a metering head that has at least one nozzle which can be actuated by a control signal. The method includes the steps of: moving a base having a surface that is to be coated along this surface relative to a metering head and/or moving the metering head relative to a surface of the base, and applying a fluid coating material to the surface through a nozzle in response to at least one control signal generated by a computer.