an adapter permits replaceable inked ribbons to be used in a typewriter that is constructed to receive ribbon cartridges . such a typewriter has means to removably retain a cartridge in place , and the adapter has a base plate that is engaged by said means . a transparent cover member which is spaced above the baseplate is hinged close to the plane of the baseplate so it swings forwardly as it is opened . a manually rotatable ribbon advance knob is rotatably mounted in the cover member and drivingly engages a ribbon take - up spool , preferably through a one - way clutch that prevents reverse rotation of the spool . for those typewriters which have a vertically movable control member to adjust the ribbon advance for total release ribbon or plastic matrix ribbon , the base plate carries a manually pivotable control member actuator .