The Best Tape Dispenser for your Shop!

This 8-roll tape dispenser, designed and crafted by Alley Picked, is the perfect addition to any workshop. With just a few materials you likely already have on hand, you can create your own dispenser in just a couple of hours.

Materials and Tools

  • Scrap wood pieces (e.g., solid oak or 3/4-inch pine)
  • 5/8-inch and 3/8-inch dowel rods
  • Hacksaw blade
  • Trim screws and nails
  • Cardboard pieces
  • Drill and drill bits
  • Chisel
  • Awl
  • Saw

Step 1: Measure and Cut

Begin by measuring the diameter of the inside of the tape rolls you plan to use. For instance, if the diameter is three inches, draw a square with opposite corners measuring three inches. Using a two by four, cut this square with a thickness no wider than the tape itself.

Measuring and cutting the wood block

Step 2: Drill the Holes

Draw a diagonal line to locate the center of each block and drill holes in the centers. Use a 5/8-inch drill bit for larger tape and a 3/8-inch bit for smaller tape.

Drilling holes for dowel rods

Step 3: Prepare the Frame

Use wood from an old drawer or similar source, ensuring it’s at least 9/16-inch thick. Mark the center at the top of all wall dividers with an awl, and drill holes for the dowels to turn on. Leave about 1/8 of an inch in the center without drilling through.

Marking and drilling frame pieces

Step 4: Assemble the Dispenser

Align the tape rolls where you want them, ensuring there’s a gap on the sides for free turning. Use cardboard pieces to maintain this gap. Assemble the dispenser using trim screws and nails, and remember to pre-drill holes to avoid splitting the wood.

Assembling the tape dispenser

Step 5: Add the Cutting Blade

Attach a hacksaw blade for cutting tape. If one blade is too short, cut a second one to the appropriate length.

Attaching hacksaw blade for cutting tape

Step 6: Final Adjustments

After assembly, you might notice there’s no place to grab the tape. Use a chisel to create a space under the tape for easy lifting.

Creating space for tape lifting

Customize Your Dispenser

You can leave your tape dispenser as is or customize it to fit your style. Whether you prefer a simple or fancy design, this dispenser is versatile enough to accommodate your preferences.

Completed tape dispenser

With these steps, you now have a functional and stylish tape dispenser for your workshop.

Video

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