How to Make an Easy to Use Tape Dispenser

If you ever need to wrap a package or box for mailing or make a box for a special project, you need to have tape handy. Especially helpful when wrapping gifts at Christmas time or other holidays. I came up with this idea to be able to use only one hand, tear off what I needed and hold the project with the other hand. Tape is easily added or removed, and the whole thing is easily stored as it is held in place by a c-clamp or other clamp of choice.

Step 1: Parts You Need to Make This

There are 5 pieces of wood used in this project. I cut down a two by four that I salavaged.
1. Base: 3/4 inch pine, 7 1/4 x 11 inches.
2. Two uprights: pieces of 2x4; 2.5x2.5x1.5inches.
3. One crossbar: 2 1/2 x 10 x 1 1/2inch.
4. Tape cutting mount, 2 1/2 x 6 1/4 x 1 1/2inch.

Total= 5 pieces

Two bolts with nuts are needed: 5/16 x4 1/2 bolts with nuts and 2 washers each.

One piece of hacksaw blade, cut or broken to fit the tape cutting mount.

Step 2: Drill Holes in Wood Pieces

The holes are drilled in the two uprights to hold the crossbar with tape in place. Drill the crossbar, uprights and base at the same time so that there is no alignment problem later on. Using a long 3/8 inch bit does the trick.

Also, drill three holes in the hack saw blade to be able to attach it to the cutting block. (Use a 3/32 in bit for these short screws). Three holes are drilled in the botton of the base and into the cutter mounting block. Use a 1/8 inch bit for this step.

Step 3: Attach Hacksaw Blade to Cutting Block

Self explanatory, see picture and image notes.

Step 4: Add Your Tape to Crossarm

Choose the tape you want for whatever job you are doing. I make boxes and wrap them sometimes, so have used the tape shown.

Step 5: To Use, Clamp Dispenser to Your Work Bench or Table.

When clamped in position, only one hand is needed to pull of the tape you need while holding your project with your other hand. When done, dispenser can be removed and stored out of the way.