Abstract: The invention relates to a process and apparatus for applying liquid, pasty or foamy substances to both sides of webs of material. To prevent any adverse effect on the web of material or the applied substances, application is performed by means of a pair of S-rolls 7,11 at a looping angle just enough for the application, the web of material being guided substantially straight. The two applicator rolls 7,11 are disposed as close as possible to one another immmediately upstream of the drier inlet 1. At least one of the applicator rolls 11 can be moved out of the operating position, to enable the web of material to be drawn in unimpeded.