Abstract: A combination strip reel and printing apparatus and method for printing a headband strip includes a frame with a reel holder and strip tension maintaining dancer tubes positioned in the strip feed path on each side of a printing mechanism. The printing mechanism is an interval printer with a plate wheel and an impression wheel which swings the strip in and out of printing contact with the plate wheel in response to the operation of start and stop switches selectively positionable relative to the plate wheel. The plate wheel turns at a constant speed and the impression wheel and arms holding the impression wheel and the strip move to alternately start and stop rotation of the impression wheel. The arms swing the strip and impression wheel into and out of printing engagement with the plate wheel. The printing interval is completely adjustable between the circumferential length of the plate wheel and the length of a selected character on the plate wheel.