Abstract: A coater apparatus is disclosed for applying a primary flow of coating material to a moving web of paper. The apparatus includes a frame and a first and a second guide roll rotatably supported by the frame. The first and second guide rolls rotate respectively around first and second rotational axes. The second axis of rotation is disposed spaced and parallel relative to the first axis. A backing blanket extends around and is guided by the guide rolls. The blanket defines an endless loop around the guide rolls such that the web of paper is supported by the blanket during movement of the web from the first guide roll to the second guide roll. The blanket is disposed between the web and the guide rolls. A short dwell coater is disposed adjacent to the web and between the guide rolls for applying the primary flow of coating material to the web.