An ink-applying device having a funnel-shaped ink reservoir filled with ink is provided with an ink pick-up roller positioned below the ink reservoir and in communication therewith. A number of dosing chambers of differing diameters are formed in the circumferential surface of the roller to receive ink from the ink reservoir and to transmit it to an ink-transmitting roller upon rotation of the pick-up roller. The ink dosing chamber may be selectively closed after they have been filled with ink, in any required combination by a number of sliders or plungers adapted to move between a closing and opening positions and controlled by electromagnets or any suitable electronic device.