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How to Add Ink to a Typewriter Ribbon

Vintage typewriters are a fun item for casual hobbyists or savvy collectors. They are complex, intricate machines that are fascinating for engineers and revered by typographers. However, every typist eventually encounters the day when the ribbon runs out of ink--whether you type with your machine daily or keep it carefully on display. Spools and ribbons are often discontinued, and finding replacements can be difficult. Fortunately, adding ink to a used typewriter ribbon can extend its useful life and get you typing again in no time.

Things You'll Need

Typewriter ribbon
Ink pad
Ink
Silicon spray
Block or weight

Instructions

- 1
  Apply ink to your ink pad.
- 2
  Spray silicon over the pad in a light layer. This will help the ink adhere to the ribbon.
- 3
  Stretch the ribbon out, making sure that you have tension.
- 4
  Lay the ribbon across the pad.
- 5
  Set your block or weight on top of the pad with the ribbon firmly in between. Use a heavy block that is approximately the same size as the pad.
- 6
  Gently pull the ribbon from the spool through between the pad and block. Make sure that the ink is evenly sticking to the ribbon and that it is not too thick.
- 7
  Wind the ribbon onto the takeup spool as you pull it through.

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