a fluid tinting method includes : determining a preselected quantity of a colorant to be dispensed into a container to achieve a desired final color ; determining a time required to dispense the preselected quantity of the colorant based on a flow characteristic of a dispensing apparatus ; and operating the dispensing apparatus for the time determined . an apparatus for carrying out the tinting method includes one or more colorant sub - systems each including an apparatus for creating a flow of a colorant and a colorant valve which receives the colorant . the colorant valve is moveable between a first position which prevents colorant flow to a container , and a second position which allows colorant flow to the container . a control system is operable to move the colorant valve to the second position for a preselected period of time based on a preselected quantity of colorant to be dispensed .