Apparatus and methods are disclosed for spraying an adhesive in a selected pattern on a continuously moving web. The apparatus and methods include at least one nozzle which is supplied with a predetermined volumetric flow of adhesive. A pressure regulating mechanism is used to maintain a back pressure at the nozzle when the nozzle is operated in an off position to provide an instantaneous spray of adhesive from the nozzle when the nozzle is operated from the off position to an on position. The nozzle is configured to spray the entire predetermined volumetric flow of adhesive when operated in the on position.