[header] How to change a typewriter ribbon [title] Find the ribbon spools. [step] First, carefully lift the top " bonnet " of the typewriter. Then, look for the typewriter ribbon wound around two metal or plastic spools: much like the sort that you'd use for sewing thread or rope. 
The spools are set up in an s-shaped configuration on two axles. The ribbon itself stretches between the spools and through an aligning scale.