Abstract: A hand fed gravure press primarily for use in making multicolor proofs. A carriage assembly for moving relative to the press bed and comprising an impression cylinder for holding the paper, an ink distribution system for consistently applying a selectable quantity of ink at a predetermined location, a doctor blade spaced a distance from the ink system for spreading the ink across a printing plate and a cleaning unit for removing excess or dried ink from the plate after printing is completed. A control system for regulating the movement of the carriage assembly and the operation of the ink distribution system, the doctor blade and the cleaning unit.