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.
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Instructions
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Apply ink to your ink pad.
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Spray silicon over the pad in a light layer. This will help the ink adhere to the ribbon.
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Stretch the ribbon out, making sure that you have tension.
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Lay the ribbon across the pad.
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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.
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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.
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Wind the ribbon onto the takeup spool as you pull it through.
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Tips & Warnings
Try to pull the ribbon through at a steady pace to ensure that ink is evenly applied along its entire length.
Most supplies needed for this exercise are available at a craft store.
Having someone else help will make this process easier, particularly when winding the re-inked ribbon onto the takeup spool.
Be sure to spread the ink evenly on your ink pad. An uneven ink pad can cause ink to form clogs when it is transferred to the ribbon.
