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Video set-up guide

Setting up the manual gummed tape dispenser: video walkthrough

From unboxing to your first strip of sealed carton in around two minutes. Watch the short demonstration, then work through the six steps below at your own packing bench.

  1. Inspect the sponge rollerTake the black sponge roller out of the front of the unit. The screw at its end can work loose in the post, so tighten it by hand if it has.
  2. Fit the tape rollRest your roll of gummed paper tape at the rear so it sits on the two white rollers, then thread the loose end under the first roller and over the second.
  3. Feed the tape forwardKeep guiding the tape towards the front until it lies across the top of the black sponge roller, and draw it through the middle of the unit.
  4. Fill the water trayWhile the sponge roller is still out, add a small amount of water or sealing solution to the tray beneath it.
  5. Wet the spongeDrop the sponge roller back into place and turn it a few times so it absorbs the water.
  6. Pull, tear and sealDraw the tape across the damp sponge and tear it off on the blade. It comes out moistened and ready to press straight onto your carton.
Is the hanging bar needed?
No, it is optional. Pushing it through the centre of the roll lets the tape hang above the dispenser and unwind a little more smoothly.
Water or sealing solution?
Ordinary tap water does the job. Empty and rinse the tray now and then, as standing water can start to smell.

Frequently Asked Questions

What tape width does this dispenser take?

It's designed for 48mm wide water-activated (gummed) paper tape.

How does a gummed paper tape dispenser work?

As the tape passes over the wet sponge roller it's evenly moistened, which activates the adhesive. Once applied, water-activated tape bonds into the cardboard fibres to create a strong, tamper-evident seal.

How do I set the dispenser up when it arrives?

Check the black sponge roller is tight, sit the tape roll on the two white rollers, feed it under the first and over the second, bring it forward over the sponge, add a little water to the tray and spin the sponge to soak it. The video and six steps above show each stage.

Does it fit all tape core sizes?

Yes - it has a universal design suitable for all tape core sizes.

How do I control how much tape comes out?

It's a manual pull-and-tear dispenser. You draw out the length each carton needs and tear it off on the blade, so there's nothing to set or adjust.

Why is my gummed tape coming out dry?

The sponge has usually run dry. Top up the tray underneath with water and turn the sponge roller a few times so it soaks up the water again.

How is the manual dispenser different from the handheld version?

This is a heavy-duty bench-style dispenser built for regular, higher-volume packing, with a water tray and sponge roller that wet the tape as you pull it. The handheld version is compact and portable, better suited to lower-volume packing.

What tape should I use with it?

Use 48mm kraft water-activated gummed paper tape. Paired with kraft paper tape it gives a fully paper-based carton sealing solution, reducing reliance on plastic tapes.

What delivery options are available for the dispenser?

On the UK mainland, Standard Delivery (3-5 business days) is £6.95 and free on orders of £100 or more, or choose Next Working Day Delivery for £9.95. Orders to Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man are £19.95 for Standard Delivery, also free on orders of £100 or more.

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Free UK Delivery Available
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Free UK Delivery Available

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