Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the amount of ink transferred to the ink train in a printing press, which reduces press makeready and precisely regulates the ink transfer amount regardless of press speed. The control apparatus includes a fountain roller in operable contact with an ink supply, and a ductor roller mounted for shiftable movement between the ink train and the fountain roller. A sensor provides a signal representative of the interval of rotational movement of the fountain roller while the ductor roller is in contact with the fountain roller and thereby made available for ink transferring contact therewith. This interval is indicative of the amount of ink transferred from the fountain roller to the ductor roller for deposit to the ink train. Further, the control apparatus includes a processor control assembly which receives signals from the sensor and is operable for receiving an instruction input from the press operator indicative of the desired amount of ink transfer.