to remove the ribbon:

    1. if the ribbon has not run out, break it between the ribbon guide plate and the ribbon take-up spindle.

    2. while turning the ribbon take-up spindle release knob counterclockwise, squeeze the ribbon against the ribbon take-up spindle tension blades.

    3. when the tension blades collapse into the ribbon take-up spindle, hold the release knob and rotate the spent ribbon toward the rear of the printer. then, slide off the ribbon.