Abstract: A cartridge for dispensing tape to be lettered in a first direction out of the cartridge includes a cartridge frame. The cartridge frame supports the tape and guides the tape. The cartridge includes posts fixed to the frame for supporting a roll of tape and for contacting an interior surface of a roll of tape. The cartridge frame further includes a tape guide. A tape bias mechanism such as a spring and pad is mounted in the cartridge frame for biasing the tape in a second direction substantially opposite the first direction.