A ribbon movement controlling cartridge includes a smudge guard/ribbon guide which contains exposed ribbon in a fixed stationary position during cartridge transportation and storage. When the guide is engaged with a printhead, it releases ribbon passage therethrough and acts as a smudge guard/ribbon guide during normal cartridge usage. A Mobius loop forming structure (along a first path for fabric ribbons) includes a central aperture therethrough so as to alternately permit direct non-inverting ribbon passage through the same structure along a second path intersecting the first path, for carbon film-type ribbons. A limited usage metering and self-stopping mechanism insures against over-extended usage of the cartridge. A unique key locking tab arrangement permits a proper cartridge to be positively engaged with a printer while also permitting easy disengagement for cartridge removal and replacement.