Abstract: A pad transfer printing machine is disclosed in which the engraved printing plate is suspended face-down at an elevated position above the surface to be printed, and is horizontally movable between a retracted position and a pad contacting position. The plate is inked and scraped as it moves horizontally and, at the pad contacting position, presents an inked image to a deformable transfer pad. A movable printing member drives the transfer pad in alternating upward and downward strokes and inverts the pad during each upward and downward stroke, so that the transfer pad is alternately brought into contact with the printing plate at the top of its stroke and with the surface to be printed at the bottom of its stroke. The elevated position of the printing plate renders it easily accessable for removal and replacement. Excess ink is automatically removed from the printing plate by the scraping device as the plate is removed, and the excess ink is returned to the ink supply.