Abstract: In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a manifold in the form of a pipe having a closed end is utilized to supply a finishing agent to orifices arranged at spaced intervals along the pipe. A foam material surrounds the manifold to receive the finishing agent and to apply it in a thin film to the curved surface of an element comprising a longitudinal section of a cylinder. The film is retained on the curved surface by surface tension as it moves under the force of gravity to a longitudinal edge of the cylindrical section. A web of fabric is tensioned against the section edge as the fabric moves past the cylindrical section. The direction of fabric movement is such that the film of finishing agent is applied to the fabric immediately ahead of the line of contact between the fabric and the section edge.