Abstract: The invention is an improved liquid photopolymer applicator means for use on photorelief printing platemaking machines. The applicator means comprises a substantially vertical plate which acts as both the rear wall of the applicator means and as a doctor blade for uniformly spreading the photopolymer. The remaining sides of the applicator means form a scoop means which is substantially movably connected to the vertical plate to define a bottom slot-like opening immediately in front of the vertical plate to discharge the photopolymer at a controlled rate, said photopolymer being doctored by the vertical plate as the entire assembly traverses the length of the platemaking machine. The entire assembly is a part of a movable carriage which traverses the length of the platemaking machine, said carriage being movably mounted to said platemaking machine upon a shim which determines the thickness of the photopolymer plate desired, and said carriage driven by an adjustable gear means.