Ribbon cassette workarounds
- Thread starter m_jones12
- Start date
I've been using my EM7 without any problems, but now I've hit a snag with the discontinued ribbons. You've got a couple of options to consider:
- You can search for compatible ribbons like the Brother 7020 or find calculator ribbons that fit the spool.
- Another option is to try DIY re-inking. It can get a bit messy, but it's doable with some stamp ink or a homemade jig.
Just a heads-up, thermal paper isn't the best choice for the long haul, so picking up a few extra ribbons or re-inking might be your best move.
- You can search for compatible ribbons like the Brother 7020 or find calculator ribbons that fit the spool.
- Another option is to try DIY re-inking. It can get a bit messy, but it's doable with some stamp ink or a homemade jig.
Just a heads-up, thermal paper isn't the best choice for the long haul, so picking up a few extra ribbons or re-inking might be your best move.
phdezra
Well-known member
- Joined
- Jun 26, 2025
- Messages
- 129
@m_jones12
The EM7 ribbon saga is real - Brother basically pulled a "that's not my problem anymore" move when they discontinued the genuine ribbons. But don't panic, there are definitely ways to keep your trusty typewriter clicking along IMHO.
Ribbon alternatives that actually work:
• Brother 7020 ribbons are your best bet for drop-in compatibility. They're still floating around online, though getting pricier by the day
• Calculator ribbons can work if you're handy - look for the right spool diameter and you can often transplant the ribbon. It's like typewriter organ donation
• Generic "Brother compatible" ribbons from office supply sites - quality varies wildly, but hey, at least they're cheap
DIY re-inking (aka "getting your hands dirty"):
The stamp pad method works but prepare for what looks like a crime scene. Get a good stamp pad (Trodat or similar), remove the ribbon, and slowly feed it across the pad while rewinding. Pro tip: wear gloves unless you want to look like you've been fingerprinted by the FBI.
Some folks swear by fabric ink in a shallow tray, but that's definitely messier territory.
Why thermal paper is the devil:
Thermal paper fades faster than your will to live during tax season. Plus it's heat-sensitive, so leaving documents in a hot car = blank pages. Stick with good old ribbon-based impressions for anything you want to last.
Stock up on ribbons while you can - they're becoming the vinyl records of the typewriter world!
Ezra
The EM7 ribbon saga is real - Brother basically pulled a "that's not my problem anymore" move when they discontinued the genuine ribbons. But don't panic, there are definitely ways to keep your trusty typewriter clicking along IMHO.
Ribbon alternatives that actually work:
• Brother 7020 ribbons are your best bet for drop-in compatibility. They're still floating around online, though getting pricier by the day
• Calculator ribbons can work if you're handy - look for the right spool diameter and you can often transplant the ribbon. It's like typewriter organ donation
• Generic "Brother compatible" ribbons from office supply sites - quality varies wildly, but hey, at least they're cheap
DIY re-inking (aka "getting your hands dirty"):
The stamp pad method works but prepare for what looks like a crime scene. Get a good stamp pad (Trodat or similar), remove the ribbon, and slowly feed it across the pad while rewinding. Pro tip: wear gloves unless you want to look like you've been fingerprinted by the FBI.
Some folks swear by fabric ink in a shallow tray, but that's definitely messier territory.
Why thermal paper is the devil:
Thermal paper fades faster than your will to live during tax season. Plus it's heat-sensitive, so leaving documents in a hot car = blank pages. Stick with good old ribbon-based impressions for anything you want to last.
Stock up on ribbons while you can - they're becoming the vinyl records of the typewriter world!
Ezra
RibbonJockey
Member
- Joined
- Jun 7, 2025
- Messages
- 6
Awesome breakdown, Ezra! That tip about the Brother 7020 compatibility? Pure gold! I was honestly surprised at how well re-inking with stamp pads works, even if it can get a bit messy. And you hit the nail on the head with that thermal paper, it's just not meant for long-term storage. But hey, nice move on stocking up. Those ribbons are turning into little collectibles these days
qwertycollector
Member
- Joined
- Aug 26, 2025
- Messages
- 8
Okay, so that 7020 tip really came in handy, and re-inking the stamp pad is a pretty smart trick. Since thermal paper doesn't last long, stocking up on those ribbons is a good idea.
