Tape Dispenser, Multi-size/Modular

This is a Modular and multi-size tape dispenser.

I first designed this as a single size (3/4in) non modular dispenser, held together with screws. The comment I got the most was : were are the other sizes?

I refined the design, corrected a few mistakes in the files and made the whole thing fully customizable. You can now make this thing as wide as you want, holding as many rolls of any size you need.

Versions

My original screwed version is still available for those who like the look of the screws. This version is unfortunately not modular, but is now available in all sizes.

The Glued version is the modular version available for tape rolls ½ in, ¾ in, 1 in and 2 in wide tape.

Both version have holes on the bottom that accept 6x3mm round magnet. This dispenser was originally designed to go on my metal toolbox… use as many or as little magnets as you want/need (or none at all).

The Spindles accept standard 3inch (inside diameter) rolls.

There are 2 versions of the frames. The old version is wider, that is the only difference. They both work the same. the newer version uses less plastic keeps the total width of the dispenser reasonable and obviously saved printing time. I recommend the old wider version if you are printing a single 1/2 inch roll dispenser to make it more stable.

I made a second version of the front and back 2 inch spacers that has triangular openings. Again this saves plastic, but it also makes it look a lot lighter, airier, open…. both versions function the exact same. Your choice.

Printing

I print My dispensers in PLA

• 0.2mm layers
• 10% grid infill
• 2 perimeters for glued version
• 3 perimeters minimum for screwed version in order to have more material to drill and tap the holes.

To print a dispenser you will need:

• 1 LH frame
• 1 RH frame
• 1 Spindle (select a size)
• 2 pins
• 1 front Spacer (select same size as spindle for spacers)
• 1 Mid Spacer
• 1 back spacer

If you are printing a multi-roll dispenser you will need:

• 1 separator for each additional size you want to add
• A set of spacers of the desired width
• A spindle and 2 pins of the desired width.

I included a clip that can be used to screw down the dispenser and keep it from moving if desired.

I included STL for all versions of every part

G-codes included for glued version (Modular)

UPDATE!!

I have uploaded a new model that lets you print a heavier base for this dispenser. The base replaces the spacers and can be filled with material of your choice to add weight.

https://makerworld.com/en/models/492593

Assembly

Screwed version:

You will need 12x 6-32 screws 5/8 long (7/8 long for the old version frames) this length works with the ½ inch spacers, you can use longer screws for the wider versions if you wish to do so.

Open the pilot holes in the spacers to 0.1065 (no.36 drill) and tap the spacers. You need to tap half way from each side of the spacers.

You can also use 3mm screws approx. 16mm long ( 22mm for old/wider version of the frames) pre drill to 2.5 mm before tapping.

Do not over torque the screws, this is just plastic and only needs light tightening.

Glued version

This version is a bit more user friendly.

The parts in the glued version all have spherical registrations to align the holes. The important thing is to make sure that you cleanup the semi spheres from any stringing or imperfection before assembly. A quick light pass with sand paper is sometimes a good idea on the “male” spheres. The “female” spheres are usually pretty clean.

I use C.A. glue to put everything together, I imagine epoxy would work very well also.

I use clamps to press everything together and close all the gaps, and this works very well.

I suggest doing a full gluing sections all at once to make sure every thing is glued square and will fit correctly with the following section. ( If you are going the modular route)

If you don't have access to clamp, weights can certainly do the trick.

Insert the pins in the spindle, they should go in tight. If not, a drop of glue will fix that. If too tight a little bit of sand paper should do the trick.

You will need a ½ inch wide hacksaw blade. Cut to required length and insert in slot. Fit should be tight.

I included a clip that can be used to screw down the dispenser and keep it from moving if desired. I could not think of an elegant way to add weight to this so this clip might help screw it down to keep it from moving around. A clamp also works well on the side of a work bench. Check back soon for a hook I'm thinking of to lock it into a surface/shelf/bench in one quick motion…. will add it within a few days.

Cabinet door adhesive rubber bumpers also work great to help keep it in place.

That's a lot of info… don't hesitate to post a message if anything needs clarification.

Thanks for downloading this if you did and don't forget to post your make! I'm always curious to see what people do with the stuff I post. Constructive criticism always welcome.

And If you have a minute, check out my other models!