How to Re-Ink an Adding Machine Ribbon

Once common for bookkeeping and other jobs involving complicated calculations, adding machines are a simpler relative of modern calculators. While many are complicated mechanical devices, modern adding machines are not unheard of and some are even still in use. However, advances in technology have rendered adding machines mostly antiquated, making replacement parts hard to find. Similar to typewriter ribbons, ribbons for adding machines are a particular problem as many were made with obsolete spools. By re-inking your own ribbon, you can extend its usefulness while saving some money.

Things You'll Need

• Used adding machine ribbon
• Ink pad
• Silicon spray
• Block or weight

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Spread ink evenly over your ink pad.

   • 2

     Spray silicon evenly across the ink pad. This helps the ink to stick to the ribbon.

   • 3

     Stretch the ribbon out so that it has tension.

   • 4

     Lay out the ribbon across the ink pad, holding the tension.

   • 5

     Set the weight so that it sits on top of the ink pad, with the ribbon in between. The weight should be heavy enough to keep the ribbon firmly in place against the pad.

   • 6

     Pull the ribbon through, between the pad and your weight. Make sure that the ink doesn't go on too thickly.

   • 7

     Wind the freshly inked ribbon onto the takeup spool as it comes through across the pad.