The present invention relates to an apparatus for applying a coating, preferably a high viscosity coating to a supported web, preferably tissue. The apparatus of the present invention comprises a sealed coating chamber that can be supplied with coating material under pressure. The chamber further comprises a metering device at its trailing edge, which applies a thin layer of coating material to an applicator roll. In general, the coater is designed to have a small footprint, allowing it to fit into tight locations and be readily adapted for use in existing tissue manufacturing and converting processes. The coater also has the advantage of having a sealed coating chamber, which permits coating material to be supplied under pressure and preventing contamination of the coating material by debris common to the coating process.