A method and apparatus for automated loading and unloading of a cylinder (14) in an engraver (10). The method and apparatus permit the engraver (10) to accommodate cylinders (14) of differing geometries, including a range of lengths, diameters and mounting configurations. The engraver (10) comprises a headstock (16) and a tailstock (18) which cooperate to rotatably support a cylinder (14) at an engraving station (15) in the engraver (10). The engraver (10) also comprises a cylinder handling system having at least one cylinder support (30) for supporting the cylinder (14) between the headstock (16) and tailstock (18) during loading and unloading of the cylinder (14). The cylinder handling system comprises a driver (32) for driving the cylinder support (30) towards and away from the engraving station until the headstock (16) and tailstock (18) engage and rotatably support the cylinder (14). Once the cylinder (14) is rotatably supported between the headstock (16) and tailstock (18), then the cylinder support (30) is retracted. Each cylinder support (30) comprises a telescoping support member (34) having a support nest (36) for engaging and supporting the cylinder (14) at the engraving station (15).