Abstract: A tape applicator includes a frame. A blade is affixed to the frame. A guard is mounted on the frame and extends from the frame beyond the edge of the blade. The guard is deflected as the tape is drawn across the blade.

Abstract: An improved needle construction for use in tag attachers. The needle includes an elongated body having a mounting end and a piercing end. The mounting end of the body is releasably securable to the tag attacher. The piercing end of the body includes a sharp point for piercing the article to be tagged. The elongated body includes an enlarged collar proximate the mounting end of the body which abuts against the front surface of the tag attacher when the needle is secured thereon.

Abstract: A filament-type attachment device with a label formed from a stretch oriented thermoplastic material is provided. The attachment device includes a filament formed with a label engaging portion at its first end and a cross-bar joined to a second end of the filament, and a label formed with a receiving portion adapted to receive the engaging portion of the filament. The label and engaging portion are formed to facilitate securing the label and resist removal from the filament.

Abstract: In a rack and tie-back clip assembly, the clips are joined in pairs by a cord and are held in a linear array on the rack. The clips can be disengaged in pairs from the rack, the mounting arrangement of the clips on the rack being such that entanglement of the cords does not occur either in storage or during removal of the clips. The rack has bars which sit within slots in the clips so as to prevent rotation of the clips while held in the rack. In a preferred arrangement, each rack holds two rows of clips, the clips lying against each other so as to provide additional stability to the assembly.