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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsThe Tapes-To-Go plan shows how to build individual tape dispensers that hang on a wall cleat and lift off for bench use. Each dispenser is sized to a particular roll: the plan specifies an interior width 1/16 inch wider than the tape roll, removable side screws for reloading, and a hacksaw-blade cutter. The project appeared in WOOD magazine’s September 2005 issue (Issue 164), with design credited to Jeff Mertz; WOOD Magazine’s project page was updated January 12, 2024.
How the wall-hung dispenser works
Each unit holds one roll. A rabbeted cleat mounted to the wall supports the dispenser: lift the dispenser’s front, then insert the top edge of its back into the cleat. You can lift a unit off the mount to use it at a bench, rather than carrying the entire group of dispensers.
The design is modular in practice: make a dispenser for each tape roll you want at hand, and size each unit to that roll’s width and core opening. The plan does not compare commercial dispenser models.
Size each dispenser to its tape roll
Set the interior width
Measure the tape roll and make the dispenser’s interior width 1/16 inch wider than the roll. The drawing labels the dispenser width as the tape width plus 9/16 inch, allowing for the sides and cutter arrangement shown in the plan. Confirm dimensions against the original drawing before cutting parts; the available text extraction does not make every cut-list detail clear.
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#1 Best Overall
- Fits standard .94" rolls of painter's or masking tape available in most stores
- Tape and marker not included
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN: Wall-mounted tape dispenser system for kitchen organization, featuring one-handed operation and built-in marker holder for convenient labeling
- VERSATILE USE: Perfect for labeling containers, sealing bags, and organizing kitchen items with easy access to tape and a marker
- SPACE-SAVING MOUNT: Compact 5"H x 4.5"W x 2.25"D unit mounts anywhere, including inside cabinet doors, keeping tape and a marker easily availalbe yet up and out of the way
Fit the support discs to the core opening
Trace the inside opening of the specific tape roll onto 1/4-inch hardboard, then cut round discs to support the roll. The 2005 article reports that rolls in its shop used either a 1 3/8-inch or 2 7/8-inch disc, each described as 1/8 inch smaller than the tape’s inside diameter. Those are examples from that shop, not standard sizes for every tape roll.
Build and reload the dispenser
The plan calls for wood parts, 1/4-inch hardboard discs, screws, a wire nail, an adhesive-backed rubber bumper, and a piece of hacksaw blade for the cutter. The drawing shows countersunk screw holes, pilot holes, and a 5/16-by-5/16-inch rabbet. For the round discs, the instructions name a bandsaw, scrollsaw, or circle cutter as options.
Rank #2
- Wide Compatibility: Suitable for standard painter or masking tape with width ≤ 1’’, core diameter ≥ 3’’, length ≤ 60 yards (Tape and marker are not included)
- Damage-free Installation: Attaching to any magnetic surface makes it easily to install, use and move; don’t have to drill any holes or cause adhesive residue
- Versatile Label System: A 3-in-1 system that combines a tape dispenser, a blade, and a pen holder, making your daily routine smoother, keeping tapes and labels at arm's reach, ready to tackle any sealing or labeling task.
- Clean Cut: The dispenser mechanism provide a clean cut every single time without the hassle of searching for the tape end - a common frustration with traditional dispensers.
- Multi-scenario: Ideal for cabinets and refrigerators in kitchens, home offices, craft/sewing rooms, and garages, as well as shared work refrigerators to label lunches, office supplies, closing opened packages, leftovers, spices, accessories and more. It helps keep items organized
- Make the body and cleat. Use the official plan drawing to verify the parts and dimensions before cutting. The dispenser width is specified as tape width plus 9/16 inch; the wall cleat has a 5/16-by-5/16-inch rabbet.
- Cut the support discs. Trace the roll’s core opening onto 1/4-inch hardboard and cut the discs round so they fit that roll.
- Fit the removable side. Leave one side unglued and fasten it with two screws so it can be removed to load or replace the roll.
- Install the cutter. Cut a hacksaw blade to the tape width plus 9/16 inch, as shown in the drawing, and fit it as the cutting edge.
- Hang the dispenser. Attach the cleat with fasteners appropriate to your shop wall. The drawing depicts a 2-inch wood screw centered over a stud for the mount; it does not state a rated load for the assembly.
Find the original plan
The project is available through the WOOD Store listing for plan GR-00682. The listing’s live price and availability can change, so check the store page for current purchasing details. The WOOD Store’s Shop Project Super Bundle listing also identifies this project as DP-00682 among 25 plans; bundle terms and availability may change.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Clips to surfaces up to 1.25" thick
- 360-degree horizontal rotation
- 180-degree vertical rotation
- Clips to tables, desks, monitor stands, cubicle walls, etc
- Clip allows for one-handed dispensing
Rank #4
- Single Handed Operation for Easy Labeling: This innovative wall mounted tape dispenser allows you to tear 1-inch labeling tape with just one hand—perfect for quickly marking food containers, meal prep boxes, or freezer bags without scissors or extra tools. Designed as a kitchen labeling tape dispenser, it features a built in holder that keeps your marker and tape roll organized and always within reach
- Compatible with Standard Labeling Tape: This labeling tape dispenser is designed to fit tape rolls under 1 inch wide, including common sizes like 0.75 inch (19 mm) and 0.94 inch (24 mm). It supports the standard 3 inch core, making it compatible with most kitchen labeling tape, masking tape, and food prep tape rolls
- Two Installation Options for Flexible Mounting: This wall mounted tape dispenser offers two convenient installation methods to fit different kitchen surfaces. Use the included mounting strips to attach it securely to smooth areas like refrigerators, tiles, or metal surfaces, or choose the screw mounting option for wooden walls, cabinets, and shelving
- Wall Mounted Design to Free Up Counter Space: This wall mounted kitchen labeling tape dispenser creates a clean, organized labeling station by keeping your label tape rolls and markers neatly stored and always within reach. A practical kitchen labeling tape holder that helps streamline meal prep, food storage, and daily organization
- Complete Set Included: This kitchen labeling tape dispenser comes with everything you need for easy installation—1 wall mounted tape holder, 2 strong adhesive hook and loop strips, and 2 nails
Rank #3
- Mounts damage-free on refrigerators, walls--even out of sight in cabinets and pantries
- Keeps tape and a marking pen always handy, yet up and out of the way
- Label containers, seal bags and boxes, and more
- Uses standard .94" tape rolls available everywhere
- Tape, marker, and damage-free mounting strips included
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