The present invention concerns a method and system for applying decorative tape to a glass pane (16). The disclosed system (10) and method allow tape segments that are shorter than a distance between a cutter and a glass engagement position to be applied by an application head to the glass pane (16). The system (10) includes the application head, a tape supply (40), a drive roller (50), a cutter (94,96), and a controller (44). The application head applies tape segments cut from the tape supply to the glass pane. The drive roller (50) advances the tape dispensed by the application head. The cutter (94,96) cuts end portions of each tape segment. The controller (44) is programmed to sort moves of the application head, tape supply, drive roller, and cutter to allow tape segments that are shorter than a distance between the cutter and the glass engagement position to be applied to the glass pane.