Abstract: A system for helically wrapping a tape comprises tape twisting means, and, upstream of the twisting means, means for shaping the tape. The shaping means comprises a body over which the tape passes, the body having a first surface of at least partially cylindrical form and an outwardly curved edge surface extending along a side of the first surface. Tape supply means is arranged to feed the tape onto the first surface such that the tape is inclined to a plane at right angles to the axis of the first surface whereby an edge of the tape engages the curved edge surface and is thereby shaped in order to initiate wrapping. The system is particularly suitable for wrapping a paper tape around a nylon core.