A system and corresponding methods are disclosed for controlling the thickness of a layer of dampening fluid applied to a reimageable surface of an imaging member in a variable data lithography system. Following deposition of the dampening fluid layer, a gas is passed over a region of the fluid layer prior to pattern forming. The gas causes a controlled amount of the dampening fluid layer to evaporate such that the remaining layer is of a desired and controlled thickness. Among other advantages, improved print quality is obtained.