Abstract: A tape dispenser for securing a desired length of pressure sensitive tape onto a surface and severing the length from a tape roll held within the dispenser. The dispenser includes an applicator element having a tape support bar at the lower end thereof, a tape gripping member pivotally mounted on the lower end of the applicator forwardly of the tape support bar, a tape cutting edge disposed in the lower portion of the device and a spring member for raising the actuator after the desired length of tape has been paid out from the dispenser and urging the tape support bar against the tape gripping member to grip the tape therebetween and pull the tape over the cutting edge as the applicator moves upwardly within the dispenser severing the length of tape secured to the surface from the tape roll.