Typewriter Talk / Seeking reliable ribbon

**Posted by thudthwacker** 15-10-2020 11:20:01

I bought a Royal Caravan (looking at various pictures, I'd guess a mid-1960's model) on eBay, wow, I guess it's almost 2 years ago. Solid machine, and works properly (the couple of times I've pulled it out) -- but as you might expect, the ribbon is pretty much spent. I'd like to get a new one, but whenever I check, eg, Amazon, I see lots of reports of people who bought ribbons that were dried out, or spooled backwards, etc.

So, as a rank newbie to this hobby: could you tell me where to look for reliable ribbons? I don't mind paying more for them than I'd pay on Amazon, if I know what I'm getting is good.

Thanks very much for your time and any assistance you can provide.

**Posted by skywatcher** 15-10-2020 22:49:10

Hi TW

If you are in the US, my recommendation for good wet ribbons in a rainbow of different colors as well as the ubiquitous black and black over red, is Ribbons Unlimited in Maryland. Lanie is very accommodating and can get you almost anything you need in the way of replacement ribbons. Most ribbons come on the standard 2" plastic spools, but you can also get metal spools. If your Caravan has the Royal Twin-Pak™ system, you can wind the ribbon into the cartridge, but it takes a little fiddling. All the best,

Sky

**Posted by thudthwacker** 16-10-2020 14:22:08

I am indeed in the US, so Ribbons Unlimited sounds perfect. Thanks very much, Sky.

**Posted by Pete E.** 19-1-2021 16:14:53

I have been happy with Ribbon Unlimited and Lannie's level of service for more than 1 year now. His silk black & red ribbons are consistent and print well on paper. Always seem like very "fresh" stock.